Eye care guidance often gets reduced to a single number, such as every two years, but that is only a starting point. Your ideal frequency depends on your age, whether you already wear corrective lenses, your family history of eye conditions, and whether you have any existing health conditions, such as diabetes, that can affect your eyes.
A Simple Guide by Age Group
Children aged three to five: at least one screening before starting school, to catch issues like lazy eye early, when treatment works best.
School age children and teenagers: every one to two years, since undiagnosed vision problems can affect learning and concentration.
Adults aged 18 to 40 with no symptoms: every two years if you have no existing prescription or known eye conditions.
Adults who already wear glasses or contact lenses: every year, since prescriptions can shift gradually without you noticing.
Adults aged 40 and above: every one to two years, as this is when presbyopia, the gradual loss of close up focus, typically begins.
Adults aged 60 and above: every year, due to higher risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
Signs You Should Not Wait for Your Next Scheduled Exam
Sudden changes in vision, including blurriness, double vision, or loss of vision in one eye.
Persistent eye pain, redness, or discharge that does not clear up within a day or two.
Flashes of light, new floaters, or a curtain like shadow across part of your vision.
A noticeable change in how well your current glasses or contact lenses are working.
Why Regular Exams Matter Even Without Symptoms
Some of the most common eye conditions, including glaucoma and early diabetic eye disease, develop gradually and often without any noticeable symptoms until they have already caused damage. A comprehensive eye examination can pick up early warning signs well before you would notice anything yourself, which is the main reason routine exams matter even when your vision feels fine.
Book Your Next Eye Examination
If you cannot remember your last eye test, that is usually a sign it is time for a new one. Message us on WhatsApp to book a comprehensive eye examination at any of our branches across Accra, and we will help you settle on a schedule that suits your age and eye health.