Optimal Eye Health: How Often for an Eye Test

Many wait to book an eye test until vision worsens, but regular exams do more than update prescriptions. They protect long-term eye health and overall well‑being. At Arthur Hayes Eyecare, we often find issues an eye test reveals before symptoms appear.

Female patient having an eye test

How Often Should You Have an Eye Test?

For most adults in the UK, the general recommendation is an eye examination every two years. However, this can vary depending on your age, lifestyle, and eye health history.

You may need more frequent eye tests if you:

  • Are over the age of 60

  • Wear glasses or contact lenses

  • Have diabetes or high blood pressure

  • Have a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration

  • Spend long hours on screens

  • Have you noticed changes in your vision, headaches, or eye discomfort

Children should also have regular eye tests, as vision plays a crucial role in learning and development. Early detection of vision problems can make a significant difference to confidence, academic performance, and long-term eye health.

If you’re unsure when your last eye test was, that’s often a sign it’s time to book one.

Why Regular Eye Tests Are So Important

An eye test isn’t just about seeing clearly. During a comprehensive examination, we assess your eye health and look for early signs of conditions that may not yet cause symptoms.

Eye examinations can help detect:

  • Glaucoma (often with no early warning signs)

  • Cataracts

  • Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

  • Diabetic eye disease

  • High blood pressure and circulation issues

Catching these conditions early allows for monitoring, treatment, or referral before permanent damage occurs. Many of these conditions progress slowly and silently, which is why routine testing is so important—even if your vision feels “fine”.

Changes in Vision Aren’t Always Obvious

Vision changes don’t always happen suddenly. You may gradually adjust to blurred vision, increased glare, or eye strain without realising how much your eyesight has changed.

Common signs that it’s time for an eye test include:

  • Squinting or needing brighter light to read

  • Headaches or tired eyes

  • Difficulty driving at night

  • Blurred or fluctuating vision

  • Struggling with screens or close-up work

If any of these sound familiar, a professional eye examination can provide clarity and reassurance.

Local Eye Care You Can Trust in Crowborough

At Arthur Hayes Eyecare, we provide thorough, unhurried eye examinations tailored to you. We take the time to understand your lifestyle, your visual needs, and any concerns you may have. Using modern diagnostic equipment, we ensure your eye health is carefully monitored at every visit.

As a local independent practice in Crowborough, we’re proud to look after generations of families—helping our community see clearly and confidently at every stage of life.

When Was Your Last Eye Test?

If you can’t remember when you last had an eye examination, now is the perfect time to check. Regular eye tests are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your sight.

📞 Call our friendly team at Arthur Hayes Eyecare today, or

📅 Book an appointment online to see when you’re next due for a check.

Your eyes work hard every day—make sure they’re getting the care they deserve.

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