Affordable eye exams for older adults

For patients age 60 and older, getting regular eye exams is very important – especially for those with known eye conditions, or other health concerns. Comprehensive eye exams for seniors are conducted by an optometrist (not a tech) at all Eye Boutique locations.

Request an appointment online, or call one of our stores to book your exam.

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How aging affects the eyes and vision

The risk of many eye conditions and diseases increases with age. Fortunately, many of these can be effectively treated or prevented if diagnosed early. Book an eye exam with one of our doctors of optometry to learn more about managing your risk of age-related eye conditions.

Common age-related vision concerns:

This is more common the older you get. It happens because the lens of your eye loses elasticity over time, making it harder to focus on things up close.

This sometimes develops when your eyes don’t produce enough tears. Lack of quality tear film causes discomfort and blurred vision. Most adults over 65 have some dry eye symptoms.

Another common age-related change. You may need brighter light to perform the same tasks you always have, like reading or close-up work.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the #1 cause of vision loss in adults 50 and older. Symptoms start with blurred central vision. Risk of AMD is highest for adults over 60, smokers, Caucasians, and people with a family history of AMD.

This diseases damages the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. As the optic nerve deteriorates it creates blind spots in your field of vision. Glaucoma develops slowly, often without early symptoms or warning signs. Vision loss from glaucoma is irreversible. If untreated, glaucoma can cause total blindness.

They are cloudy areas in the lens caused by protein buildup, UV exposure, and aging. Cataracts are very common in older adults, and cause symptoms like blurred vision, reduced and/or increased sensitivity to light and color, double vision, and poor night vision. Cataracts are progressive and correctable.

This occurs when the blood vessels in the retina are damaged, leading to vision problems and eventually, possible blindness. The risk of developing diabetic retinopathy increases the longer you live with diabetes. Regular diabetic eye care is essential for patients of all ages living with Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes.

How often do seniors need eye exams?

Caring optometrists for senior vision care

The AOA (American Optometric Association) recommends adults age 60 and older have an annual eye exam. You should also make an appointment to see your eye doctor if you notice vision changes or discomfort. Don’t wait for vision problems or eye symptoms to see an eye doctor. Many age-related eye diseases have very small or no symptoms in early stages. By the time you notice an issue, the disease may already be advanced.

Regular eye exams can detect eye problems early, before they develop into more serious conditions. Eye exams can also catch early signs of other health concerns like high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and diabetes.

How much is a senior eye exam?

If you have vision insurance, it probably covers all or most of the cost of a yearly eye exam. Our optometrists take most vision plans, and we’re happy to do a benefits check for you.

Does Medicare cover senior eye exams?

Medicare Part B benefits cover eye exams for some patients who meet specific criteria for diabetes, glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration. We accept Medicare vision insurance and can help you understand what’s covered in your plan.

Eye care discounts for seniors

At Eye Boutique, seniors get 20% off most products and services. This discount doesn’t apply to contact lenses, or already-discounted items.
Explore all our deals and discounts, or visit a store near you for more information.

What can an optometrist do for seniors?

A doctor of optometry can provide primary eye and vision care for seniors, including:

Ordering lab tests to diagnose or treat eye disease
Diagnosing and treating glaucoma with topical or oral medication
Prescribing glasses and contact lenses
Providing vision therapy (orthoptics)

Patients with very serious or advanced eye disease will be referred to a qualified local specialist, such as an ophthalmologist.

Low-vision solutions

Seniors with low-vision impairment can benefit from various devices designed to help maintain independence. Your optometrist may recommend:

Hand-held, wearable, or stand magnifiers
Video magnifiers (these can brighten, enlarge or increase contrast in video displays)
Bioptic telescopes (telescopic low vision glasses)
Text-to-speech readers

These are only a few examples. There are many types of adaptive products and technologies to help people with low vision. Discuss your concerns with your eye doctor to learn about your options.