Life gets busy—school pickups, grocery runs, doctor visits, and the occasional game night if you’re lucky. Amid all that, it’s easy to lose track of how often your family really needs eye exams. But just like regular checkups with your pediatrician or dentist, eye exams are essential for everyone in your household.
At Navigation Eye Care in Chesapeake, VA, we guide families through a clear, age-based plan that keeps everyone seeing their best year after year.
Eye Exam Timelines for All Ages
Each stage of life brings new vision needs. Here’s how often each member of your family should have an eye exam based on their age:
Babies (6 to 12 months)
Yes, babies need eye exams too! Even if there are no signs of trouble, their first exam checks for developmental issues and ensures both eyes are working together properly.
Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 1 to 5)
By age 3, kids should have a comprehensive exam to catch issues like lazy eye or misalignment. One more visit before starting kindergarten ensures their eyes are ready for reading, writing, and learning.
School-Age Kids (Ages 6 to 18)
Children should get an exam once a year. Vision can change quickly with growth, and undetected issues may impact focus, learning, and behavior.
Adults (Ages 19 to 60)
Healthy adults with no known eye problems should have an exam every one to two years. However, annual visits are recommended for those with screen-heavy jobs, contact lenses, or chronic conditions.
Seniors (Ages 61 and older)
As we age, the risk for glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration increases. Seniors should have yearly eye exams to monitor for these conditions and adjust prescriptions as needed.
Why Consistency in Eye Care Really Matters
Eyesight can change gradually. Often, kids won’t complain because they don’t realize their vision has shifted. Adults may ignore symptoms like headaches or fatigue, assuming it’s just stress. But regular exams catch small changes before they become big problems.
Here’s what consistent eye care can help detect or prevent:
- Myopia progression in children
- Early signs of eye diseases
- Prescription changes for glasses or contacts
- Digital eye strain or blue light sensitivity
- Health concerns like diabetes or high blood pressure that can show up in the eyes
By following a consistent family eye exam schedule, you protect more than just eyesight—you protect quality of life.
Make Eye Exams Easy with Navigation Eye Care
We know scheduling multiple appointments can feel like a juggling act. That’s why we work with you to simplify the process. Our friendly team can coordinate back-to-back appointments, offer flexible times, and even make the experience fun for kids with a welcoming, low-stress environment.
At Navigation Eye Care, we believe in caring for the whole family. Whether it’s your toddler’s very first visit or Grandma’s annual checkup, we’re here to support healthy vision at every stage.
Schedule Eye Exams for the Whole Family Today
Let’s get everyone on track. Book your next visit with Navigation Eye Care and follow a personalized family eye exam schedule that fits your life.
Call now or schedule online to make eye care simple, consistent, and stress-free—for everyone you love.