How Often Should Seniors Get Eye Exams to Prevent Glaucoma?

Reviewed by: Dr. Christine Bui, OD

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss in seniors, and it often develops with no early symptoms. By the time most people notice a change, the damage is permanent. Adults over 60 face a sharply higher risk, making regular eye exams essential for preserving sight.

In the United States, an estimated 4.22 million people have glaucoma, yet nearly half are unaware they have it. Early detection isn’t just about preventing vision loss; it’s about maintaining independence, mobility, and quality of life.

So, how often should seniors schedule eye exams to protect themselves? And what steps can you take now to safeguard the vision that allows you to read, drive, recognize loved ones, and enjoy daily life?

Let’s break it down.

How Frequently Should Seniors Get Eye Exams?

Let’s start with the basics: how frequently should seniors get eye exams?

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, adults 65 and older should get a comprehensive eye exam every 1 to 2 years. That’s the minimum.

For seniors at higher risk, even every 6 to 12 months may be recommended. 

Why so frequent? Because in glaucoma, the earlier we detect changes in eye pressure or optic nerve damage, the more we can do to slow or stop vision loss.

So, in plain terms:

Age / Risk Level	Recommended Eye Exam Frequency
65+ with no risk factors	Every 1–2 years
65+ with risk factors	Every 6–12 months
Experiencing symptoms or vision loss	Immediately, then as advised

Still unsure where you fall? Keep reading.

Signs Seniors Need More Frequent Eye Exams

Some seniors need exams more often than others. How do you know if that’s you or someone you care about?

Here are the key signs seniors need more frequent eye exams:

• Family history of glaucoma – Glaucoma runs in families. If a parent or sibling has it, your risk is significantly higher.
• Ethnic background – African Americans over 40 are 4 to 5 times more likely to develop glaucoma. Hispanic and Asian seniors also face increased risk.
• High intraocular pressure (IOP) – Elevated eye pressure can damage the optic nerve over time. This is one of the earliest warning signs.
• Health conditions like diabetes or hypertension – Chronic conditions can affect eye health and increase glaucoma risk.
• Long-term steroid use – Steroid medications, especially in eye drops, can raise IOP.
• Previous eye injury or surgery – Trauma to the eye can make it more vulnerable to pressure damage.

Even without symptoms, if you check any of these boxes, book exams every 6 to 12 months.

And if you’re noticing changes in your vision, especially side or “peripheral” vision, schedule an eye exam as soon as possible to protect your vision.

How Eye Exams Detect Early Glaucoma in Seniors

So what happens during an eye exam, and how does it catch glaucoma before it causes vision loss?

Here’s how eye exams detect early glaucoma in seniors:

1. Tonometry

This measures the pressure inside your eyes (IOP). Normal pressure ranges from 10–21 mmHg. Anything higher could indicate early glaucoma.

2. Ophthalmoscopy (dilated eye exam)

The doctor dilates your pupils and examines your optic nerve using a bright light and a magnifying lens. Changes in the shape or color of the nerve can be early signs of damage.

3. Perimetry (visual field test)

This checks for blind spots in your side vision—the first place glaucoma usually strikes.

4. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

A powerful imaging tool that scans the retina and optic nerve, measuring thickness and identifying signs of nerve fiber loss, sometimes years before symptoms show up.

Combined, these tests give a clear picture of your eye health. The earlier changes are spotted, the more options you have to preserve your vision.

Treatments may include prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or minimally invasive surgeries, all designed to reduce IOP and prevent further damage.

Without regular exams, glaucoma can progress unnoticed, gradually narrowing your field of vision. Early detection gives you the best chance to preserve your sight.

Eye Care Routine for Seniors at Risk of Glaucoma

If you or a loved one is at risk, here’s an ideal eye care routine for seniors at risk of glaucoma:

• Annual (or biannual) eye exams – Stay consistent with your exam schedule. Early detection is your strongest defense.
• Take medications as prescribed – If you’re on pressure-lowering drops, use them daily—don’t skip doses.
• Monitor changes – Keep a log of any changes in your vision, especially side vision or eye discomfort. Even subtle changes can matter.
• Maintain overall health – Control blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol. All these affect eye health.
• Protect your eyes – Wear UV-blocking sunglasses outside. Reduce screen glare. Use good lighting when reading.
• Eat for eye health – Leafy greens, omega-3-rich fish, carrots, and citrus fruits all support your vision long-term.
• See glaucoma specialists – If you’re diagnosed or at high risk, consider seeing dedicated glaucoma specialists for more advanced monitoring and treatment.

Some seniors may be managing both glaucoma and cataracts, which is more common than you’d think. If that’s you or a loved one, it’s important to know your options. Review our blog to understand how glaucoma and cataract surgeries can be combined and what makes them different.

Don’t Wait. Protect Your Vision Today.

Still asking how frequently seniors should get eye exams? The short answer: at least once a year, more if you’re at risk.

Not sure where to start or what signs to look for? We’re here to help.

At Lake Eye Associates, our expert glaucoma specialists provide advanced diagnostics and personalized care plans to help seniors keep their vision for life. We work with seniors, we understand what aging eyes need, and we take the time to explain everything—no pressure, no confusion, just answers.

So if you’re over 60 and haven’t had an eye exam in the last year, or if you’re wondering whether those changes in your vision might be a sign of something more, don’t guess.

Call us. Ask questions. We’re here to answer your questions and guide you through your options.

Because if you could protect your eyesight for the next 10, 15, 20 years with one quick exam… wouldn’t you?

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Are eye exams covered by Medicare or insurance for seniors?

Yes, Medicare covers annual glaucoma screenings for seniors at high risk, such as those with diabetes or a family history of glaucoma. Many private insurance plans also offer some coverage for routine eye exams, but coverage details vary. It’s important to check with your provider to understand your specific benefits.

2. What should seniors expect during a comprehensive eye exam?

A comprehensive eye exam for seniors typically includes:

• A review of medical and vision history
• Visual acuity testing (reading an eye chart)
• Measurement of eye pressure (tonometry)
• Examination of the optic nerve and retina, often with pupil dilation
• Visual field testing to check peripheral vision
• Advanced imaging if needed (such as OCT scans). These exams are painless and usually take less than an hour.

3. How do eye exam recommendations differ for seniors with diabetes or hypertension?

Seniors with diabetes or hypertension are at higher risk for eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. They should have comprehensive dilated eye exams at least once a year or more frequently if recommended by their eye doctor. These exams help catch changes early and prevent vision loss.

4. Can vision loss from glaucoma or other age-related diseases be reversed?

In most cases, vision loss from glaucoma and other age-related eye diseases cannot be reversed. However, early detection and treatment can slow or stop further progression. That’s why regular eye exams are so important, because they give you the best chance to preserve your remaining vision.

5. What lifestyle habits help protect senior eye health between exams?

To protect your eyes between exams:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, fish, and colorful fruits
• Wear sunglasses that block UV rays
• Don’t smoke, as smoking increases your risk of eye disease
• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure
• Take breaks from screens and use good lighting when reading

6. How do I know if I’m at higher risk and need more frequent eye exams?

You may need more frequent eye exams if you:

• Have a family history of glaucoma or other eye diseases
• Are you African American, Hispanic, or Asian (some groups are at higher risk)
• Have diabetes, high blood pressure, or use steroid medications
• Have had previous eye injuries or surgeries
• Notice any changes in your vision. If any of these apply, talk to your eye doctor about a personalized exam schedule.

7. What are the early warning signs of eye diseases in seniors?

Early warning signs include:

• Blurry or cloudy vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Loss of side (peripheral) vision
• Seeing halos around lights
• Sudden changes in vision, flashes, or floaters. If you notice any of these, see your eye doctor right away, even if your next exam isn’t due yet.

8. How do eye exams for seniors differ from those for younger adults?

Senior eye exams often include additional tests to check for age-related diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. The focus is on early detection of conditions that become more common with age and can threaten independence if left untreated.

9. How soon should a senior see an eye doctor if they notice sudden vision changes?

Any sudden change in vision, such as loss of vision, flashes of light, or a sudden increase in floaters, should be treated as an emergency. Seniors should contact their eye doctor immediately or seek urgent care by scheduling an appointment. Quick action can sometimes prevent permanent vision loss.