This is one of the questions we frequently hear at VISION. We have compiled a table to help answer your questions.
Infants
Infants are born with underdeveloped visual systems. A child’s visual system develops throughout the first months
and years of life.
First eye examination: 6 months of age. Certain conditions that require attention can be detected early e.g.
strabismus (“squint”). A family history of eye problems as well as a premature birth may increase the risk of visual
problems. It is recommended that a paediatric ophthalmologist examines children under four.
Preschool Children
The visual system is enhanced during the preschool years, it is therefore important to detect problems that may
affect proper development.
Exam frequency: Preschool children should have an eye exam by the age of four and again before Grade 1.
Spectacle wearers/Eye exercises: If a child is prescribed spectacles or eye exercises during this time an eye
exam is recommended yearly.
School-Age Children
The visual system is crucial for academic performance and sport. Undetected vision problems may cause a drop in
performance in these areas.
Exam frequency: Every 18-24 months if no vision problems are present.
Spectacle wearers/Eye exercises: If a child is prescribed spectacles or eye exercises during this time an eye
exam is recommended yearly.
Adults under 40
Spectacle/Contact lens wearers: Yearly exams
Non-Spectacle/Contact lens wearers: Every 18- 24 months or sooner if symptoms develop or there is a family
history of eye disease.
Adults with health problems: More frequent examinations may be needed for adults with diabetes, high blood
pressure and other disorders as many diseases can affect the health of your eyes.
Adults Over 40
From the early forties the eye’s ability to focus on close objects begins to decrease. This is a normal physiological
change known as presbyopia. Also, the risk of eye disease such as glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration
increases with advancing age. Often there are no symptoms in the beginning stages therefore it is crucial to detect
any eye disease early.
Exam Frequency: Yearly exams.
Contact Lens Wearers
An annual exam of the cornea is required as per the Health Professional’s Council of South Africa. This is to make
sure that no unwanted side effects that may lead to complications are present on the surface of the eye.
Comments are closed.