This August, observe National Eye Exam Month by learning about ways to keep your vision clear and healthy. As we age, getting a baseline eye exam can detect early signs of disease or damage to your eyes. Ophthalmologists recommend periodic eye exams every 2-4 years from the ages of 40 to 65, and every 1-2 years after the age of 65. While most symptoms are often disregarded, getting a simple checkup and following a doctor’s orders can greatly lower risks of more severe and future damage, and you can continue to enjoy healthy vision.
National Eye Exam Month timeline
Several subspecialties are introduced to focus on particular areas or diseases of the eye, including cataracts, glaucoma, pediatrics, and oncology.
Hermann von Helmholtz invents the ophthalmoscope, an instrument for inspecting the retina and other parts of the eye.
The first hospital dedicated to the practice of ophthalmics opens in London. It still exists, and is known as Moorfields Eye Hospital.
In 800 BC, an Indian surgeon named Sushruta describes 76 ocular diseases, as well as several ophthalmological techniques and instruments.
How to Observe National Eye Exam Month
Take the exam
There is no reason to put off something this important. An eye exam usually takes about 20-30 minutes. See your doctor and make sure everything's ok.
Encourage others to do the same
So many of us take the laissez-faire approach to something like sight by simply adopting the “if ain’t broke…” philosophy. Urge your loved ones to brave the doctor’s office and ensure their healthy vision.
Make sure you have the right prescription
Your eyes change over time. Adjusting your prescription may be necessary to reduce eyestrain, optimize performance, and make your vision as clear as can be.
5 Eye-catching Facts About Eyes
Millions of us need help
It’s estimated that around 12.2 million Americans need vision correction.
Don't forget about your kids
Somewhere around half of all children under the age of 12 have never had their eyes checked.
The eyes have it
While it takes some time for most parts of your body to warm up to their full potential, your eyes operate at 100% at all times.
Eyes require enormous cerebral power
Seeing is such a big part of everyday life that it requires about half of the brain to get involved.
Eyes can be fixed
Most vision problems worldwide are avoidable or curable.
Why National Eye Exam Month is Important
Good vision improves work performance
It's tough to focus at work if you're having vision problems, which may contribute to reading and concentration issues. Getting your vision corrected would help — and make you much more efficient and successful at the office.
Eye exams can help reveal other issues
Eye exams can reveal much more than simply the health of your eyes — such as issues with diabetes, glaucoma, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
Eye exams offer a preemptive strike.
Many diseases that affect the eye often do not have warning symptoms, but can have severe effects on vision and eye health later on. Eye conditions can often be easily managed when caught early.
National Eye Exam Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | August 1 | Thursday |
| 2025 | August 1 | Friday |
| 2026 | August 1 | Saturday |
| 2027 | August 1 | Sunday |
| 2028 | August 1 | Tuesday |
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