Eye Health After 60: Screenings and Everyday Habits
Many eye changes are a normal part of aging, while others benefit from early attention. Here is how often to get eye exams and habits that support healthy vision.
The short version
- A comprehensive dilated eye exam can find conditions before you notice symptoms.
- Sunglasses, good lighting and not smoking all support eye health.
- Sudden vision changes, flashes of light or a curtain over your vision need prompt medical care.
In this guide
Holding the menu at arm's length or needing more light to read are familiar experiences after 40. These changes are common and are usually easy to address with reading glasses or updated prescriptions. But some eye conditions that become more common with age develop quietly, without early symptoms. That is why regular eye exams matter.
Normal changes vs. reasons to get checked
Common age-related changes include:
- Needing reading glasses for close-up tasks
- Needing more light to see clearly
- Taking longer to adjust when moving between bright and dim places
- Seeing colors as slightly less vivid
- Mild dry eyes
Get prompt medical care for:
- Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
- New flashes of light or a sudden shower of floaters
- A shadow or curtain moving across your vision
- Eye pain or redness with blurred vision
- Straight lines that suddenly look wavy
How often should you have an eye exam?
The National Eye Institute encourages adults 60 and older to have a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Your eye doctor will recommend how often based on your health and family history. People with diabetes are generally advised to have a dilated exam at least once a year.
During a dilated exam, drops widen your pupils so the doctor can see the back of your eye, including the retina and optic nerve. Your vision may be blurry and sensitive to light for a few hours afterward, so bring sunglasses and consider having someone drive you home.
What Medicare covers
Original Medicare generally does not cover routine eye exams for glasses or contact lenses. It does cover certain eye services, such as yearly glaucoma tests for people at high risk, diabetic eye exams and some cataract-related services. Many Medicare Advantage plans include routine vision benefits. Check your plan materials or call your plan to confirm.
Everyday habits that support eye health
Wear sunglasses outdoors. Choose sunglasses that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. A wide-brimmed hat adds protection.
Do not smoke. Smoking is linked with several eye conditions. If you smoke, ask your doctor about resources to help you quit.
Eat a variety of colorful foods. Leafy greens, fish, eggs, nuts, beans and colorful fruits and vegetables are part of an overall healthy eating pattern.
Manage health conditions. Keeping blood pressure and blood sugar within the ranges your doctor recommends supports overall health, including your eyes.
Know your family history. Some eye conditions run in families. Share this information with your eye doctor.
Give your eyes a break. When reading or using a screen, look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. Blinking regularly helps with dryness.
Make your home easier on your eyes
- Add brighter, glare-free lighting in reading areas, kitchens and stairways.
- Use night lights between the bedroom and bathroom.
- Mark the edges of steps with contrasting tape.
- Choose large-print books, phone settings and remote controls if they help.
- Keep spare reading glasses in the rooms where you use them most.
Keep your prescription current
Outdated glasses can make it harder to see hazards and can contribute to eye strain. If you notice that your glasses no longer seem to work as well, schedule an appointment rather than waiting for your next routine visit.
