You’ve heard people say, “The eyes are the windows to the soul” — but they’re also windows to your overall health. That’s why an annual eye exam is such a wise practice. Vision checkups can uncover broader health issues like diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis, and even certain types of cancer.
Since many vision issues show no obvious symptoms, the only way to ensure your eyes are healthy is by visiting your doctor for a check-up. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, an eye exam can help detect as many as 20 health conditions. In addition to revealing these broader health concerns, regular eye exams monitor for common eye diseases and conditions, such as:
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Age-related macular degeneration
Eye exams are especially important for children. They help identify nearsightedness, farsightedness, and lazy eye (amblyopia). Experts recommend a child’s first eye exam between six and 12 months of age, with follow-ups at age three and again at age five or six, when they begin school. After age six, annual eye exams are key to keeping their vision on track.
According to the Vision Council, 79% of people in the United States rely on some form of vision correction, including eyeglasses, contact lenses, or reading glasses — 25% of whom are children. These numbers highlight just how important regular checkups are for all ages.
If you’re an Eder member with vision insurance, you can save money on eye exams, prescription glasses, contact lenses, and other vision services. This coverage makes prioritizing your eye health more accessible and affordable.
Consider the beauty of a stained-glass window, the faces of your loved ones, the vivid colors of a sunset, or the pages of a favorite book. These cherished moments all depend on the health of your eyes — a gift well worth protecting.
