Visiting the Optometrist
As we age, our vision becomes more susceptible to eye conditions. The best way to take care of our aging vision is regular trips to the optometrist.
What is an optometrist?
An optometrist is an eye care professional with a doctor of optometry degree. They have spent four years studying their field. Our optometrists:
- Perform vision tests and eye exams
- Perform glaucoma tests or refraction tests
- Prescribe eyeglasses
- Monitor eye conditions such as glaucoma and chronic dry eye
- Provide vision aids
Eye diseases are more common in people with diabetes or a family history of eye disease. Most eye diseases are treatable when diagnosed early.
American Care is proud to offer glasses that are available to order for our patients. Once your eye glasses arrive, we will fit them and adjust them to your comfort.
What to expect at your visit
You will see one of our highly qualified optometrists. They will ask you if you have any complaints about your eyes. If you experience dry eyes, use artificial tears regularly, or have noticed vision changes, you should tell your optometrist at the start of your visit.
During your visit, your licensed optometrist will perform an exam to determine how well your eyes see. If you need glasses or contacts, your clinician will complete a refraction exam to determine your prescription strength. Our optometrists will also perform an eye health exam to examine all areas of the eye. One of the conditions our eye health professionals will look for is glaucoma.
At our American Care Vision Centers, we test for changes in inner eye pressure as well as other signs of glaucoma. Glaucoma affects the optic nerve and is caused by a group of eye conditions. Glaucoma doesn’t cause discomfort or complaints in many patients. It often goes undetected until damage and vision loss occurs. Damage caused by glaucoma is irreversible and the number one cause of blindness in people over 60. The most common cause of damage to the optic nerve is increased pressure within the eye.
Our eye health professionals also look for damage related to other conditions such as diabetes. Patients with diabetes are at higher risk for glaucoma, cataracts, and retinopathy. Regular eye exams are the best way to prevent damage to the eye and maintain eye health.
If you currently wear glasses or contacts, it is recommended you have an eye exam every year. Patients over 65 who don’t wear glasses or contacts should have an eye exam every one to two years.
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