August is National Eye Exam/Eye Health Month

Adapted from article contributed by Audra Stewart-Gordon, Community Health and Communications Coordinator

As we age, our vision and eye health may change. Getting a baseline eye exam can detect early signs of disease or damage to your eyes. Ophthalmologists recommend periodic eye exams every 2-4 years from the ages of 40 to 65, and every 1-2 years after the age of 65. While it may be tempting to disregard mild symptoms of changes in our vision, getting a simple checkup and following a doctor’s orders can greatly lower risks of more severe and future damage, and you can continue to enjoy healthy vision.

Why do we need regular eye exams?

Good vision improves work performance

It's tough to focus at work if you're having vision problems, which may contribute to reading and concentration issues. Getting your vision corrected would help — and make you much more efficient and successful at the office.

Eye exams can help reveal other issues

Eye exams can reveal much more than simply the health of your eyes — such as issues with diabetes, glaucoma, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Many diseases that affect the eye often do not have early warning symptoms but may severely impact vision and eye health later on. Often, eye conditions can be easily managed when caught early.

Make eye health a priority

Schedule an eye exam

There is no reason to put off something this important. An eye exam usually takes about 20-30 minutes. See your doctor and make sure everything's ok.

Encourage others to do the same

Urge your loved ones to brave the doctor’s office and ensure their healthy vision.

Make sure you have the right prescription

Your eyes change over time. If you wear glasses or contacts, adjusting your prescription may be necessary to reduce eyestrain, optimize performance, and make your vision as clear as can be.

For more information on taking care of your vision, please click on the following link: Taking Care of Your Eyes | Vision and Eye Health | CDC