Why regular eye checks matter (even when your vision feels fine)

Many people only book an eye test when something feels wrong, such as blurred vision, double vision, or new floaters. However, some of the most serious eye diseases give no early warning signs. Retinal changes in particular can be silent, gradual, and painless. By the time you notice a problem, irreversible damage may already have occurred. That is why regular eye examinations, and specialist reviews where needed, are so important.

The value of preventive eye care

It is easy to assume that clear vision means healthy eyes, yet this is not always the case. Eye health and eyesight are not the same. Many conditions progress quietly in the background and can only be detected during an examination. Regular checks are valuable because they:

• Catch problems early – Conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy respond best when detected before vision loss occurs.
• Protect independence and quality of life – Healthy eyesight supports reading, driving, mobility, and everyday activities.
• Reveal wider health concerns – Eye examinations can sometimes show early signs of diabetes, high blood pressure, or circulation issues before other symptoms appear.
• Provide reassurance – Even if no concerns are found, you can feel confident that your eyes are healthy and being monitored.

Routine checks give peace of mind and the best chance of maintaining good vision into later life.

Retinal diseases that often go unnoticed

The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. It is essential for all visual function, from recognising faces to reading fine print. Because the retina has no pain receptors, problems can develop quietly. Some of the most common retinal conditions progress without symptoms at first:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – often begins with subtle changes in central vision, but early damage may not be noticed at all.
• Diabetic retinopathy – can cause small leaks and vessel damage in the retina years before vision is affected.
• Retinal tears or detachment – sometimes start with flashes or floaters, but not always; early changes may be visible only on examination.
• Glaucoma – primarily damages the optic nerve, but often picked up during a retinal exam long before vision loss.

Preventive checks are not only about detection but also about intervention. Many treatments, from laser to injections, are most effective when disease is caught early.

The effects of ageing on retinal health

Eyes age just as the rest of the body does. The process is natural, but it makes the retina more vulnerable to disease.

• Thinning of retinal tissue: Ageing can cause the layers of the retina to become more fragile.
• Accumulation of drusen: Yellow deposits beneath the retina, common in macular degeneration.
• Vitreous shrinkage: The gel inside the eye naturally pulls away from the retina over time, increasing the risk of tears or detachment.
• Reduced circulation: Blood vessels stiffen with age, reducing oxygen supply to retinal tissue.
• Higher risk of systemic disease: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and vascular conditions become more common with age, all of which can damage the retina.

The combination of these factors means that routine eye care becomes increasingly important after 50 and essential after 65.

How often should you have an eye test?

The frequency of eye checks depends on age, family history, and general health. As a broad guide:

• Adults under 40: Every 2 years, unless you have symptoms or risk factors (family history, diabetes, high blood pressure).
• Ages 40–50: Every 2 years. Some specialists recommend annual checks if you have a strong family history of retinal disease or glaucoma.
• After 50: Every 1–2 years, even if your vision feels normal. Retinal ageing accelerates at this stage.
• After 65: Every year. This is the age group most at risk of macular degeneration, retinal tears, cataracts, and other age-related eye disease.

If you develop sudden symptoms such as flashing lights, a curtain across your vision, or a rapid increase in floaters, you should seek immediate assessment regardless of when your last test was.

How to prepare for your first visit to a retinal specialist

If you have been referred to a retinal specialist for the first time, knowing what to expect and preparing in advance can help you feel more comfortable and make the most of your appointment.

Before your appointment:

• Bring your referral letter and any previous scans or photographs.
• Note any family history of eye disease, especially AMD, glaucoma, or diabetes.
• Make a list of your symptoms, even if they seem minor.
• Arrange transport or someone to accompany you, as dilating eye drops may blur your vision temporarily.

During the appointment:

• Expect a detailed history and discussion of your symptoms.
• The specialist will examine the back of your eye with advanced imaging (OCT scans, retinal photography, fluorescein angiography if required).
• You will have time to ask questions and discuss next steps, whether observation, treatment, or ongoing monitoring.

Being well-prepared ensures you and your specialist can focus on protecting your sight.

The importance of regular eye checks

Routine eye examinations are not only about updating your glasses prescription; they also help to maintain healthy vision as you get older. Clear eyesight supports everyday activities such as reading, driving, and working, and regular checks make it easier to spot changes before they affect daily life.

Even if your vision feels normal, gradual changes may still be taking place. Having your eyes checked regularly is a simple way to monitor your eye health and address any issues early.

If you are over 50, or if it has been more than 2 years since your last eye test, consider booking a check today. Early action is the best protection for your sight.