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How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam? Recommendations by Age

Woman undergoing an eye exam with a slit lamp

Regular eye exams are one of the most important steps you can take to protect your vision and overall health. At Becken Vision Solutions, our optometrists help patients in Queen Creek and Mesa, AZ maintain clear vision and detect potential eye conditions early through comprehensive, personalized care.

Whether you wear glasses or contact lenses, manage existing eye conditions, or simply want to stay proactive about your eye health, understanding how often to schedule an eye exam can help protect your vision at every stage of life.

Why Routine Eye Exams Matter

Even if you’re not experiencing vision problems, a comprehensive eye exam is vital. These exams can reveal early signs of eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration—conditions that often develop without noticeable symptoms.

At Becken Vision Solutions, our eye doctors use advanced diagnostic tools to assess your vision, evaluate the health of your retina and optic nerve, and ensure your prescription is accurate. You can learn more about what’s included in a comprehensive eye exam.

Recommended Eye Exam Frequency by Age

Infants and Toddlers (Birth to 2 Years)

The American Optometric Association recommends that infants receive their first eye exam around six months of age. Early testing helps identify conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes), which respond best to treatment when diagnosed early. Our team provides gentle, age-appropriate pediatric eye care to support healthy visual development from the start.

Preschool and School-Age Children (3–18 Years)

Children should have an eye exam before starting school and every one to two years afterward. Clear vision is essential for reading, learning, and classroom engagement. If your child struggles with reading, complains of frequent headaches, or has trouble focusing, it may be time to schedule a pediatric eye exam to rule out underlying vision issues.

Adults (19–39 Years)

Adults with no known eye conditions should schedule an eye exam every two years. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, annual exams are recommended to keep your prescription accurate and your eyes healthy. This age group may also experience eye strain from prolonged screen use or symptoms of dry eye, both of which can be evaluated during routine visits. Learn more about our modern contact lens options available at Becken Vision Solutions.

Adults (40–64 Years)

Around age 40, many people begin noticing presbyopia, which makes it harder to focus on near objects. Eye exams every one to two years help monitor vision changes and screen for conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts. The eye doctors at Becken Vision Solutions tailor each exam to your vision needs, lifestyle, and overall eye health.

Seniors (65 and Older)

After age 65, annual eye exams are strongly recommended. Seniors are at higher risk for age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and other conditions that can impact long-term vision and independence. Regular visits allow for early detection and ongoing management of ocular diseases to help preserve vision and quality of life.

When to Schedule an Eye Exam Sooner

You should schedule an eye exam right away if you experience sudden blurred or double vision, eye pain or redness, flashes of light, new floaters, frequent headaches, or eye strain. If you notice any of these symptoms, please schedule an appointment for prompt evaluation at one of our convenient locations.

Your Partner in Lifelong Eye Health

At Becken Vision Solutions, we’re committed to helping you see clearly at every stage of life. Our eye care clinic serves patients throughout Queen Creek and Mesa, AZ with advanced testing and personalized solutions. Explore our full range of eye care services or visit our home page to learn how Becken Vision Solutions supports families across the East Valley.

FAQ: Eye Exam Frequency in Queen Creek & Mesa, AZ

How often should I have an eye exam if I wear contacts?

Contact lens wearers should schedule yearly eye exams to ensure proper fit, eye health, and clear vision.

Does insurance cover routine eye exams?

Many vision insurance plans include benefits for routine exams. Visit our insurance page to review accepted plans before your appointment.

Can I schedule an eye exam if I don’t have symptoms?

Yes. Preventive eye exams are the best way to protect your vision and catch potential issues early, even if your eyes feel fine.