Four compelling reasons to prioritise eye exams despite having 20/20 vision
For many people, the term ‘20/20 vision’ conjures up images of perfect vision. We tend to assume that, since our sight is clear, there are no issues with our eye health and therefore a routine eye exam can be skipped. The reality, however, is that while 20/20 vision is a signature of health, it doesn’t mean you can forego regular eye tests. Eye health should be prioritised in the same way physical strength and mental agility are. In this article, we outline four compelling reasons to prioritise your eye exams - despite having 20/20 vision.
What does it mean to have 20/20 vision?
Having 20/20 vision is also known as having normal vision acuity. It is an indicator of the sharpness and clarity of a person's vision, as well as their ability to see items clearly from a distance of up to 20 feet/6 meters. Contrary to popular belief, 20/20 vision doesn’t mean your eyesight is perfect. Neither does it distinguish the quality of eye health. Eye examinations are there to establish everything more than just how well you can see at a distance. Here are four reasons to book an eye examination with an optometrist near me today:
1. Eyesight naturally deteriorates with age
As we age, our eye lenses harden. This inhibits their ability to constrict and relax, making it harder to focus on objects at a distance as well as those close-up. Therefore, it is common to be diagnosed with 20/20 vision in your youth but receive a different prescription later on in life. If you take a 20/20 diagnosis in your 20s for granted and choose not to have regular eye tests, there’s every chance you’ll notice changes to your vision without a means to correct it.
2. Eye examinations are vital for detecting eye diseases early on
A comprehensive eye test isn’t just designed to identify issues with vision. Trained optometrists will also look for tell-tale signs of degenerative eye diseases, including glaucoma and cataracts. Catching these early on directly links to better long-term management and the slowing down of vision deterioration over time.
3. Eye tests also highlight other health conditions
In addition to eye conditions, these examinations are also used to detect other health conditions. Changing vision can be a sign of diabetes, lupus and even high cholesterol - all conditions that have little to do with whether you have crystal clear vision and more to do with improving your quality of life.
4. Eye examinations allow you to improve other issues, including colour vision deficiency
It isn’t uncommon for people with 20/20 vision to have a colour vision deficiency. Impairing a person’s ability to notice colours and interpret signage as a result, colour blindness can impact everything from driving to preparing food. A colour vision test will identify this condition, regardless of the clarity of your sight.
Clear vision and overall wellbeing are key for us here at The Eye Establishment. Our professional optometrists offer comprehensive eye examinations to assess your vision and identify signs of concern. We’ll provide any necessary treatment options and help you choose the right glasses should you require them. We also offer over 60 eye tests for ageing eyes, along with additional checks to put your mind at ease.
If you are looking for an eye test near you, book an appointment at The Eye Establishment, one of the best opticians in London.