Frequently Asked Questions:
At what age should a child have their first eye examination?
The following represents the recommendations of the American Optometric Association (www.aoa.org) for regular eye care for patients with and without risk factors.
| Examination Interval | ||
|---|---|---|
| Patient Age | No Symptoms/No Risk Factors | Risk Factors |
| Birth to 24 months | By six months of age | By six months of age or as recommended |
| Two to five years-old | At three years of age | At three years of age or as recommended |
| Six to 18 years-old |
Before first grade and every two years thereafter | Annually or as recommended |
| 18 — 40 years-old |
Every two to three years | Every one to two years or as recommended |
| 41 — 60 years-old |
Every two years | Every one to two years or as recommended |
| 61 and older years-old | Annually | Annually or as recommended |
Infant Risk Factors:
- Born prematurely with low birth weight
- Birth mother with rubella, venereal disease, AIDS-related infection or history of substance abuse or other health related problems
- Family history of eye disease, crossed eyes or congenital eye problems
School-Aged Children Risk Factors:
- Failing to progress academically or exhibiting reading or learning difficulties
6/2008