You might say “why would I bother? My eyes seem fine!” Or you might think that the only reason to get your eyes checked is if you think you need spectacles. This is not surprising considering the advertising you see from optical chains that employ optometrists! Needing spectacles is only one possible outcome of an eye exam!

Many causes of blindness or vision impairment do not announce themselves by giving you blurred vision, or red or painful eyes. Explaining to someone that they need to see a specialist because they have a symptomless sight-threatening condition is one of the most challenging parts of my job, particularly when advanced disease is found.

Children should have their eyes checked before starting school to ensure that they do not have any developmental eye conditions requiring intervention. Ensuring optimal visual system function for educational performance means regular eye examinations for school-aged children and teenagers.

Young adults should have their eyes checked routinely to ensure optimal vision for driving, computer use, etc and to ensure their eyes and visual systems are healthy.

Older adults have the greatest risk of visual problems as well as abnormalities of their eyes or visual systems. Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy and Cataracts are common, but there are many less common conditions as well.

The bottom line is that many diseases and abnormal conditions of the eyes and visual system are silent, at least in their early stages. Early diagnosis, early intervention and regular monitoring are the best ways to ensure the best possible outcomes.