Q. How often do I need my eyes examined?
Children should be seen every 12 months, starting at the age of 3, or sooner if any kind of problems are noticed.
A non contact lens wearing adult with healthy eyes should come in for an eye examination every 24 months. If contact lenses are worn, then an examination is recommended every 12 months.
An adult with any type of eye complications (diabetes, cataracts, glaucoma, etc) should follow the recommendations of their eye care professional, as more frequent visits are required.
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Q. Does Alberta Health cover my regular eye examination?
Alberta Health will cover children (until their 19th birthday) and seniors (65 and older) for a full basic eye exam once per year. There is also coverage for partial check ups when other problems or changes occur before the year is through.
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Q. Why do I have to have a Visual Fields test?
A Visual Fields test is used to map the functions of the retina. It tells the Optometrist if you have any defects in your peripheral vision. Mapping the visual fields of a patient is used in a variety of diagnosis, but it is routinely used for early detection of Glaucoma.
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Q. Why do I need the air puff test?
The eye “puffer” is a Non Contact Tonometer (NCT). It is used to measure the pressures inside your eye. It is a diagnostic instrument used in the fight against Glaucoma. If you eye pressure are high, then further investigation is warranted.
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Q. What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is caused when the front surface of the eye (cornea) is not spherical. The power needed across the cornea, to correct one eye, can be different. It is very common and most people do not even realize they have astigmatism. It is talked about more when it is the primary cause of blurry vision.
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Q. What is a lazy eye?
Amblyopia or a lazy eye is the lack of development of the vision in one eye that is not directly caused by any eye health problem. It is not correctable with lenses alone. It is the result of poor early childhood development, and as such, occurs before the age of six. Because of this, it is recommended that children have their eyes examined at the age of 3 years, and every year following until their eyes are done developing.
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Q. At what age should my child have their first eye examination?
Children should have their first eye examination by age 3 (or sooner if you notice persistent problems like eyes crossing in/out, rubbing eyes, squinting, etc). This appointment is to make sure the child’s eyes are working together and are healthy. If a child’s eyes are not developing equally, they could develope a lazy eye that will affect them through adulthood.
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As our patient your questions and concerns are just as important as your eye health. You deserve the best care, service, and technology that the optical industry has available. We will be happy to address any questions and concerns. If we haven't addressed a question of yours please feel free to 
