If your vision seems fine, it’s easy to assume you don’t need an eye exam. After all, if nothing feels off, why take the time?
But eye exams are about more than just checking if you need glasses. They help detect early signs of vision changes, eye conditions, and even health issues you might not notice yet.
So even if everything feels normal, getting your eyes checked by an optometrist royal Oak regularly is one of the simplest ways to stay ahead of potential problems, and protect your long-term vision.
Clear Vision Doesn’t Always Mean Healthy Eyes
If you’re seeing clearly and nothing feels wrong, it’s easy to think your eyes are perfectly fine. But here’s the thing, not every eye problem comes with obvious signs, especially in the early stages.
Some of the most common eye conditions can quietly develop over time without affecting your day-to-day vision. These include:
- Glaucoma
- Macular degeneration
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Early-stage cataracts
- Retinal thinning or damage
Because the changes are often slow, your brain can adjust without you even noticing. That’s why regular eye exams matter so much, they help catch issues before they become harder to treat.
An eye exam looks at more than just how well you can see. It checks the health of your eyes from front to back, even if everything feels normal. It’s a simple way to make sure your eyes are doing just as well as they seem.
What Happens During an Eye Exam (And Why It Matters)
If it’s been a while since your last eye exam or you’ve never had one, you might assume it’s all about reading an eye chart. But a comprehensive exam is much more than that. It’s a full check-up for your eyes, inside and out.
Here’s a breakdown of the key parts of a typical eye exam and what each one helps uncover:
| Test or Check | What It Helps Identify |
| Vision Testing | Checks how clearly you see at different distances and identifies if you need corrective lenses. |
| Refraction Test | Determines the most accurate lens prescription for sharp, comfortable vision. |
| Eye Muscle Function | Assesses how well your eyes move and work together; detects coordination or focusing issues. |
| Eye Pressure Test | Measures intraocular pressure to screen for early signs of glaucoma. |
| Retinal Exam | Examines the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels to detect early signs of disease or damage. |
| Pupil and Light Response | Evaluates how your pupils react to light, which can reveal underlying neurological concerns. |
Note: Each test offers valuable insight, even if you’re not experiencing any symptoms. That’s why a full eye exam keeps your eyes healthy for the long run.
When Should You Get an Eye Exam?
How often you need an eye exam depends on your age, health, and whether you already wear glasses or contacts.
Here’s a simple breakdown to guide you:
- Ages 6–19: Once a year. Kids and teens should have their eyes checked regularly as vision can change quickly while they grow.
- Ages 20–39: Every 2 years if you have no vision problems. If you wear glasses or contacts, aim for a check-up once a year.
- Ages 40–64: Every 1–2 years. This is when age-related changes like difficulty seeing up close or dry eyes often begin.
- Ages 65 and older: Every year. Older adults are at higher risk for eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
- Anyone with health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure: At least once a year, or as often as your optometrist recommends.
And remember, if something doesn’t feel right with your vision, don’t wait for your next routine check-up. Book an appointment sooner. A quick exam can catch small issues before they become bigger ones.
Visit EyeCare Plus for Your Next Eye Exam!
If you’re in Calgary and it’s time for an eye exam or even if you’re just not sure, it helps to visit a clinic that makes the experience easy, clear, and comfortable. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Eyecare Plus, the best optometrist in Royal Oak .
Their team of experienced optometrists offers full-scope eye care, from routine exams to advanced diagnostics. Whether you need a new prescription, have concerns about eye strain, or simply want to make sure everything’s on track, you’ll get honest answers and expert support.
Appointments are friendly, thorough, and tailored to what you actually need. No pressure, no confusion, just clear guidance and the kind of care you can trust.
So if you’re in Calgary and haven’t had an eye exam in a while, EyeCare Plus is a great place to start. Your eyes will be in good hands!
