Eye exams are more than just vision checks, they’re also an opportunity to evaluate your overall health. From tracking changes in your prescription to detecting conditions like glaucoma or diabetes early, a quick visit can go a long way in protecting your sight.
A routine eye exam typically takes about 30 minutes, while specialty exams, such as contact lens or diabetic checkups, can last closer to an hour.
What to Expect During an Eye Exam?
The length of an eye exam varies based on numerous factors, including the type of exam, your age, and your specific eye health needs. Here’s a breakdown of different eye exams and their approximate durations:
- Routine eye exam: 30 minutes
- Contact lens exam: 45–60 minutes
- Diabetic eye exam: Around 60 minutes
- Additional testing (if required): 20–60 minutes
Why Regular Eye Exams Are Important?
Routine eye exams go far beyond checking your vision. They allow your optometrist to assess the health of your eyes, detect early signs of conditions such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, and even spot systemic health concerns like diabetes.
Eye Exam for Kids
Did you know 80% of learning is visual for children? Annual eye exams help promote proper vision development and can catch potential issues like amblyopia (lazy eye) or refractive errors early. For kids, exams typically include checking pupil response, eye alignment, and focusing ability. These visits generally take around 30 minutes.
When should your child have their first eye exam? The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends scheduling their first exam at 6 months old, then annually afterward.
Eye Exam for Adults
For adults aged 18–64, your vision typically stabilizes. However, lifestyle factors, such as screen time, can pose new challenges, like digital eye strain or dry eye. Regular exams every 2 years can support long-term eye and general health. Exams for adults typically take about 30 minutes and address vision changes like presbyopia or astigmatism.
Eye Exam for Seniors
Older adults (65+) often experience age-related conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration. Annual eye exams are helpful for catching and managing these problems early. They also typically take around 30 minutes, unless additional testing is needed.
Specialized Eye Exams
Contact Lens Exam
Planning to switch from glasses to contact lenses or need a prescription update? A contact lens exam involves additional testing to check that the lenses fit properly and maintain your eye health.
First-time wearers also receive training on lens care and application. With trials and fittings, these appointments can take 45–60 minutes.
Diabetic Eye Exams
Diabetes can impact eye health, leading to complications like diabetic retinopathy or macular edema. If you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, an annual diabetic eye exam is important, even if you have no current vision issues. The process includes pupil dilation for detailed images of the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. Expect these exams to last approximately an hour.
Additional Testing
Sometimes, during a routine exam, your optometrist might recommend additional testing if they notice anything unusual or if you have specific risk factors. These tests can include:
- Visual field testing to assess peripheral vision.
- OCT scans for detailed imaging of retinal layers.
- Cycloplegic refraction to fine-tune your prescription.
- Dilated fundus exams are used to thoroughly examine the back of your eye.
Additional testing can take anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour, but these insights are beneficial for safeguarding your eyesight.
How to Prepare for an Eye Exam
Preparing for your eye exam ahead of time can help the appointment run more smoothly and lead to more accurate results. Here are some simple tips to help prepare:
- Bring your current glasses or contact lenses so your optometrist can assess your current prescription.
- Make a list of any medications you’re taking, as some can affect your eyes or vision.
- Note any symptoms or vision changes, even if they seem minor, like eye strain, light sensitivity, or trouble seeing at night.
- Write down questions or concerns you’d like to discuss during the appointment.
- Plan for possible pupil dilation, which can cause light sensitivity and blurry vision for a few hours.
- Bring sunglasses to wear afterward if your pupils are dilated.
- Arrange transportation if your vision may be temporarily affected after the exam.
- Have your insurance information and ID ready to help streamline the check-in process.
A little preparation goes a long way in helping your optometrist deliver personalized, effective care.
Your Vision Is Worth the Time
At Calgary Optometry Centre, we understand life gets busy. But investing even 30–60 minutes in an eye exam can make all the difference in preserving your vision and catching potential issues early.
Our team has been serving Calgarians with professional, compassionate care since 1982. With 3 convenient locations across Calgary and appointment slots that work for your schedule, we’re here to help your eye health.Haven’t booked your appointment yet? There’s no better time than now. Protect your vision today with a comprehensive eye exam.
