Eye tests do more than update glasses; they screen for conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, and signs of systemic disease such as diabetes and high blood pressure. For healthy adults, a check every two years is a common default, moving to yearly from older age.
Some groups need closer monitoring. People with diabetes should have regular retinal screening to catch diabetic eye disease early, often annually. A family history of glaucoma, existing eye conditions, or symptoms like blurred vision warrant more frequent visits. Children benefit from early checks to detect issues that affect development.
Don't wait for the next routine appointment if you notice sudden vision loss, flashes or floaters, eye pain, or double vision; these can be emergencies. For everything else, an optometrist or eye doctor can recommend how often you personally should be seen.