How often should you have your eyes tested? A Barking optician explains

Most people know they should have regular eye tests, yet many aren’t sure what “regular” actually means. Some assume every two years is standard. Others think an eye test is only necessary when vision becomes noticeably blurred. The truth sits somewhere in between, and depends on your age, your health, your lifestyle, and your family history.

At Iology in Barking, we help patients understand exactly when to schedule their next eye test so problems are detected early and their eyesight stays as sharp and comfortable as possible.

Why regular eye tests matter

Eye tests are not simply about identifying whether you need glasses. They also check the health of your eyes, detect early signs of disease, and flag prescription changes long before symptoms become troublesome. This includes:

• glaucoma
• cataracts
• diabetic retinopathy
• age-related macular degeneration
• subtle focusing or eye-coordination issues

Many of these conditions develop with no pain and no obvious early symptoms. That’s why routine checks are essential.

Find out details on what a full eye test includes.

The general guideline: every two years

For most adults, the recommended interval is every two years. This allows opticians to track subtle changes in your prescription, eye pressure, and retinal health.

However, “every two years” is only the baseline. Many people benefit from more frequent checks.

When you should have an annual eye test

1. Children and teenagers

Young eyes change quickly. Most children should have a test once a year, or more frequently if issues arise.

Prescription changes can affect reading speed, concentration, and school performance.

2. Adults over 60

The risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration rises with age. Annual checks help catch early changes before they impact day-to-day life.

3. People with diabetes

Diabetes can affect the tiny blood vessels in the retina. Annual tests are essential, even if your vision seems stable.

4. Those with a family history of glaucoma

If a parent or sibling has glaucoma, you may be at higher risk. Early screening matters.

5. Anyone with a high or changing prescription

Short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism can shift gradually. Annual tests keep you comfortable and reduce eye strain.

Situations where you might need an eye test sooner

Even if your regular interval isn’t due, book a test if you notice:

• blurred or double vision
• headaches when reading or using screens
• difficulty driving at night
• dry, irritated, or watery eyes
• sudden changes in comfort when wearing glasses
• increased sensitivity to light
• “floaters” or flashes of light

These changes may indicate that your prescription needs updating.

Or, in children, that glasses need adjusting.

Screen use and digital eye strain. A modern reason to test more often

Barking has a large work-from-home population, meaning many people spend long hours using screens. Digital eye strain is now one of the most common reasons patients visit us.

Symptoms include:

• burning eyes
• difficulty focusing
• neck and shoulder tension
• headaches at the end of the day

If you work on a computer full-time, an annual test, or even a test every 12–18 months, helps keep your vision comfortable.

Eye tests and driving: keeping your licence safe

UK driving law requires eyesight to meet a legal minimum. Many drivers don’t realise how much their night vision or distance vision has changed until an eye test reveals it.

If you struggle to read road signs or find night driving stressful, book a test sooner.

how lifestyle, medication, and health conditions affect frequency

Certain medications, including some for blood pressure, allergies, or mental health, can affect the eyes.
If you’ve started new medication, developed new health symptoms, or noticed visual discomfort, an early test is wise.

If you're unsure whether a change in your health affects your eyes contact us.

When children need more frequent tests

Children may need more frequent checks if:

• their prescription is changing rapidly
• they have a lazy eye (amblyopia)
• they wear their glasses inconsistently
• teachers raise concerns about reading or attention

Read our guidance for parents.

When “every two years” is still fine

If you:

• are between 18 and 59
• have no symptoms
• have a stable prescription
• have no health conditions linked to vision
• don’t drive at night regularly
• haven’t noticed discomfort or visual strain

then every two years remains a sensible interval.