Eye Tests: More Than Just Reading Letters
Eye tests aren't just about whether you need glasses. They're a window into your overall health.
What Gets Checked
Visual acuity: The letter chart. How well you see at distance and near.
Refraction: If you need correction, what prescription works best.
Eye pressure: Elevated pressure can indicate glaucoma, often before symptoms appear.
Retinal examination: The back of your eye shows blood vessels directly. Changes can indicate diabetes, high blood pressure, and other systemic conditions.
Visual field: Your peripheral vision. Gaps can indicate neurological issues or glaucoma.
Eye muscle function: How your eyes work together. Problems can cause headaches and fatigue.
How Often
Adults under 40: Every 2 years if no issues. Annually if you wear glasses/contacts or have risk factors.
Adults 40-60: Every 1-2 years. Presbyopia (difficulty focusing close-up) typically starts in your 40s.
Adults over 60: Annually. Risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration increases.
Children: Before starting school, then every 1-2 years. Vision problems affect learning.
What Eye Tests Can Detect
Beyond vision problems, eye exams can reveal:
- Diabetes: Damaged blood vessels in the retina
- High blood pressure: Changes to retinal blood vessels
- High cholesterol: Deposits around the cornea
- Autoimmune conditions: Inflammation patterns
- Brain tumours: Pressure changes visible in the optic nerve
- Multiple sclerosis: Optic nerve inflammation
NHS Eye Tests (UK)
Free if you're:
- Under 16 (or under 19 in full-time education)
- 60 or over
- Diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
- At risk of glaucoma (close relative with it)
- Receiving certain benefits
Otherwise, expect to pay £20-30 for a standard test.
Driving Requirements
UK: You must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres. If you need glasses to do this, you must wear them while driving.
US: Requirements vary by state. Most require 20/40 vision with or without correction.
If your vision has changed, get tested before your licence renewal.
Add it to your tasks. We'll remind you every two years.