For some people, an eye test is an essential annual appointment, but for others, it’s left off the appointment list. If you’re one of those people who put off having an eye test, here are some reasons to rethink it.

• Short-sightedness (myopia) – difficulty focusing on objects in the distance
• Long-sightedness (hyperopia) – difficulty focusing on close-up objects
• Astigmatism – blurred or distorted vision at all distances
• Macular degeneration – a loss of vision in the centre of your field of view
• Glaucoma – increased pressure in the eye that can cause loss of vision
• Retinal detachment – the back layer of the eye (retina) separates from the layer of blood vessels
• Cataracts – clouding of the lens of the eye.

Most importantly, don’t wait to get your eyes tested if you have any concerns about your eyesight. If you notice your vision has changed, book an eye test. If you have concerns about your child’s vision, book an eye test or see your GP as soon as possible.

The purpose of an eye test isn’t just to check on your vision (although it’s a big part of an eye test). An eye test is also essential to check for eye conditions, diseases, or damage. A regular test means you’re more likely to detect the early signs of a rising issue rather than picking it up when it’s well advanced. If available, an early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further damage and serious vision loss.

The type of eye test you have depends on your age, general health and eye health. For those people who only need a standard eye test, you should expect your optometrist to complete the following:

• Ask about any vision problems and health in general
• Test your ability to see at a range of distances
• Check how well your eyes react to light and movement
• Check how well you see colours
• Measure the pressure inside your eyes
• Examine the surface of your eyes with a microscope.

If you’re an Australian resident with a Medicare card, you’re eligible for an eye test by an optometrist (that’s bulk-billed), so there is no out-of-pocket expense. For people aged under 65, they can have a bulk-billed eye test every three years. For those over 65 years, a bulk-billed test is available yearly. Check if your optometrist bulk bills or charges any additional fees at the time of booking. Medicare doesn’t cover any cost of glasses, contact lenses, or laser eye surgery.

First, if you’re experiencing vision changes or it has been two years since your last eye test, book a consultation. Don’t let more time go by. Your eyes will be grateful.

Hopefully, your eyes are healthy, but if your optometrist comes back with concerns about your test results, you may need to consider using an aid to improve your sight. This may include glasses, contacts, or laser eye surgery. Before committing to any treatment or procedure, you may like to discuss your options and research the best solution for your case. Feel free to contact us to find out more about laser eye surgery.