Eye health and vision examinations play a vital role in ensuring a lifetime of clear vision and healthy eyes. Both the Canadian and the Saskatchewan Association of Optometrists recommend that all children have a complete vision exam by age three. Saskatchewan optometrists provide free eye exams once a year for children under the age of 18 years.

Your optometrist will schedule regular checkups for you at a frequency that meets YOUR particular eye care needs.

The minimum recommended frequency of examination is as follows:

• Infants and toddlers (birth to 2 years): Infants and toddlers should undergo their first eye exam between the ages of 6 and 9 months
• Preschool (2 to 5 years): At least one exam between the ages of 2 and 5 years
  School age (6 to 19 years): Annually
• Adult (20 to 39 years): Every 2 to 3 years
• Adult (40 to 64 years): Every 2 years
• Adult (65 years and older): Annually
• Or as recommended by your Optometrist

If you are at high risk for eye disease, your optometrist may recommend more frequent eye exams. "High risk" factors can include:

• Infants and toddlers and preschoolers: Premature birth; low birth weight; mother's health during pregnancy; family medical history; an eye 'turn'; or congenital eye disorders.
• School age children: those experiencing difficulty at school; children exhibiting reading and/or learning disabilities.
• Adults: diabetes; hypertension; family history of glaucoma; those whose work is visually demanding or who face eye hazards.
• Older adults: diabetes; hypertension; family history of glaucoma; those taking systemic medication with ocular side effects.

Contact the optometrist of your choice to book an appointment.

Visit the Saskatchewan Association of Optometrists website for more information on children's vision.

Want to learn more? Visit the The Saskatchewan Association of Optometrists website.