Periodic eye examinations are important to assess ocular health and vision. An examination not only assesses a patient's visual acuity, but may also reveal a variety of potentially treatable eye diseases. Many diseases leading to permanent vision loss may show no symptoms for years, but are treatable if diagnosed in their early stages. It is important to have routine eye examinations even if you think your vision is fine.

Examinations are recommended beginning at 6 months of age, again at 3 years, and yearly thereafter. Adult examinations are recommended every 2 years unless otherwise advised by your optometrist, while senior examinations should be performed on a yearly basis. Newly developed eye conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic retinal diseases, are symptomless. It is better not to let symptoms arise before seeking eye care.

In many cases, pupil dilating drops will be used to thoroughly examine the retina; the inner lining of the eye. It is recommended that patients bring a driver and sunglasses to their appointment in the event that dilation is performed.