Most adults should schedule a full eye exam every 1 to 2 years. If you have certain risk factors—like diabetes, high myopia, or a history of eye surgery—your optometrist may recommend more frequent visits. Once you reach 65, yearly checkups are typically suggested to monitor for age-related changes like cataracts or macular degeneration.
Why Routine Eye Exams Matter
Eye exams aren’t just about updating your glasses prescription—they’re an important part of staying healthy as you age. Here’s why they matter:
They help detect silent health issues. Conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and high blood pressure often show no early symptoms but can be spotted during an eye exam.
They ensure your prescription stays accurate. Even small vision changes can lead to eyestrain, headaches, and discomfort—especially if you rely on your glasses for daily work, driving, or screen use.
Not sure which lenses are right for your needs? Explore our lens-type guide.
They support your long-term quality of life. Good vision helps you stay active, independent, and confident in everyday tasks, from reading to recognizing faces to enjoying the outdoors.
How Risk Factors Change the Timeline
Even if you're under 65 and don’t wear glasses, certain health and lifestyle factors can increase your risk for eye problems—and that may mean you need more frequent exams.
Your optometrist may recommend annual visits (or even more often) if you:
Have diabetes or high blood pressure
These conditions can affect the blood vessels in your eyes and increase the risk of vision loss.Wear contact lenses
Contacts can cause dryness, irritation, or corneal problems over time. Regular exams help keep your eyes healthy and your lenses fitting well.Have a family history of eye disease
Conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration (AMD), and retinal issues often run in families.Have had eye surgery or an eye injury
Past procedures like LASIK or cataract surgery may require closer follow-up.Take medications that affect your eyes
Some medications—such as steroids or allergy meds—can raise the risk of cataracts or dry eye.Have a strong glasses prescription (high nearsightedness or farsightedness)
When your prescription is quite strong, it can stretch or thin parts of the eye—especially the retina—raising your risk for issues like retinal detachment. Regular exams help catch problems early.
If you’re not sure whether you fall into a higher-risk category, your optometrist can help you decide how often you should come in.
Signs You Should Book Sooner Than Scheduled
Even if you're not due for a routine eye exam, there are times when waiting could put your vision at risk. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it's a good idea to see your optometrist as soon as possible:
Sudden blurry or double vision
A rapid change in how clearly you see can signal anything from eye strain to a serious underlying condition.Flashes of light or new floaters
These could indicate changes in the retina, including a possible detachment—especially in people with strong nearsightedness or after eye trauma.Eye pain or discomfort
Persistent pain, pressure, or redness can point to infections, inflammation, or even glaucoma.Frequent headaches or eye fatigue
Uncorrected vision issues or a changing prescription could be causing strain on your eyes and brain.Difficulty seeing at night
If night driving feels harder or halos appear around lights, it could be an early sign of cataracts or another condition affecting low-light vision.Changes in how your glasses or contacts feel
If your lenses no longer feel comfortable or your vision isn’t as clear, your prescription may need adjusting—or something else may be going on.
When in doubt, it’s always better to get checked than to wait. Many eye problems are easier to treat when caught early.
Types of Eye Exams & What Each Checks
Depending on your needs, an eye exam may go beyond just checking your prescription. Here’s a quick overview of the different types your optometrist might recommend:
Routine eye exam
A general check-up to assess your vision, update your prescription, and screen for common issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.Comprehensive eye exam
A more in-depth evaluation that may include dilation, retinal imaging, and pressure testing to monitor for conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration.Contact lens exam and fitting
If you wear—or are considering—contact lenses, your optometrist will take additional measurements, check lens fit, and assess eye surface health to ensure long-term comfort and safety.Medical eye exam
Focused on diagnosing or monitoring specific conditions such as dry eye, diabetic eye disease, or other health-related concerns.Urgent care / emergency exam
Recommended if you experience symptoms like sudden vision loss, flashes of light, eye pain, or an injury.
Every exam is tailored to your eye health history, vision goals, and lifestyle—whether you wear designer frames, contact lenses, or both.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Whether it’s your first visit or a routine exam, coming prepared helps make the process smooth and efficient. Here’s what to bring and keep in mind:
Bring your current glasses and/or contact lenses
This allows your optometrist to assess how well your current prescription is serving you and check for any wear issues.Carry your Alberta Health Care card
Having your health card on hand helps the clinic confirm your eligibility or process co-pays if applicable.
Insurance Coverage in Canada
Eye exam coverage varies across provinces and depends on your age and the reason for your visit. In Alberta:
Seniors aged 65 and older are eligible for routine eye exam coverage through Alberta Health Care. A small co-pay may apply, depending on the clinic.
Children and teens under 19 are also covered for annual eye exams.
Adults aged 19 to 64 are generally not covered unless the exam is deemed medically necessary.
If you have extended health or vision benefits through work or a private plan, routine eye exams are often included. Check with your provider for specific details, or contact the clinic directly if you’re unsure what’s covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can online vision tests replace an in-person eye exam?
No. Online tests can check how well you see letters or images, but they can’t assess your overall eye health or detect serious conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or retinal issues.
Q2: Do I still need eye exams if I don’t wear glasses?
Yes. Many eye conditions develop slowly and without symptoms. Regular exams help catch issues early—even if your vision seems fine.
Q3: How often should I get an exam if I wear contact lenses?
Most contact lens wearers should have a full exam every year to check fit, comfort, and eye health. Your optometrist may adjust this based on your eyes and lens type.
Keep Your Calendar, Keep Your Vision
Regular eye exams aren’t just about checking your prescription—they’re a key part of protecting your long-term vision and overall health. Whether you’re managing a specific condition or simply want to keep your eyes in top shape, staying on schedule with exams helps ensure you always see clearly and confidently.
Not sure when your last exam was? It might be time to book your next one.