We all know eye exams are important, but when is the best time for you and your family to have an eye exam? Well, that depends.
From toddlers to seniors, each stage of life and member of your family has unique vision needs that require personalized care. At Doig Optometry, we understand the importance of family eye care and are here to guide you through selecting the perfect eyewear for every stage.
Here’s a guide to help you navigate eye exams in Calgary and choose the right eyewear for your entire family.
Setting a Strong Foundation: Eye Exams in Calgary for Kids
Children’s vision develops rapidly, and early detection of any issues is important. Whether it’s your toddler’s first eye exam or your child is starting school, regular eye exams can help identify common issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
What to Look For in Kids’ Eyewear:
- Durability: Kids are active, and their glasses must withstand daily life’s wear and tear.
- Comfort: Lightweight materials and adjustable frames ensure the glasses stay on comfortably during playtime.
- Style: Fun designs can encourage kids to wear their glasses with confidence.
At Doig Optometry, we offer a variety of child-friendly frames, like the exceptionally popular NanoVista frames, making sure that your kids not only see clearly but also feel confident wearing their glasses.
Teenagers and Young Adults: Balancing Style with Function
As children grow into teenagers, their lifestyle and vision needs evolve. Teens may need glasses for school, sports, and screen time. Contact lenses may be a good option for active teens who need an occasional alternative to eyeglasses.
What to Consider for Teens:
- Screen Time: Teens spend a lot of time on their electronic devices and screens produce a lot of high-energy blue light. Interest in providing blue light-blocking lenses began to increase in the mid-2000s. In late 2013, we learned that more time outside reduces the number of kids with myopia and can reduce the amount of nearsighted prescriptions in myopic children. Now, in the early 2020s, we have some evidence that it’s the blue light in natural sunlight which gives this benefit to kids who spend more time outdoors. This is why Dr. Chorel and Dr. Doig have put a pause on recommending blue light-blocking lenses to children and teens. Instead, we recommend that parents encourage children to spend more time outside and engage in activities in natural sunlight.
- Sports Glasses: For active teens, prescription sports glasses or contact lenses can enhance performance while protecting their eyes.
- Fashion and Comfort: Teens often prioritize style, and we keep our wide selection of trendy frames current so teens keep looking good while seeing clearly.
We also offer contact lens fittings for teens ready to switch from glasses to lenses.
Managing Vision Changes and Protecting Eye Health in Adulthood
For adults, vision often starts to change around their 40s due to presbyopia—a condition affecting their ability to focus on close objects. Somewhere between age 40 and 50, most adults need reading glasses, computer glasses, or progressive lenses. Regular eye exams can help identify and address these changes.
What to Consider for Adults:
- Progressive Lenses: These lenses provide a seamless transition from near to far vision without needing multiple pairs of glasses.
- Prescription Sunglasses: Protect eyes from damaging UV rays while maintaining clear vision outdoors with prescription sunglasses.
- Workplace-Specific Eyewear: If you work in an office or on a construction site, we can provide specialized lenses such as blue light-blocking or prescription safety glasses.
Comprehensive Eye Care for Aging Eyes
As we age, our vision needs become more complex. Seniors are at higher risk for eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential to monitor and treat these issues before they impact quality of life.
Eyewear Solutions for Seniors:
- Bifocals or Trifocals: If you need different prescriptions for near, intermediate, and distance vision, bifocals or trifocals can be a great option.
- Lightweight Frames: Seniors often prefer lightweight, comfortable frames to avoid pressure on the nose and ears, leaving ample room for hearing aids.
- Anti-Reflective Coating: This feature can reduce glare, making it easier to see clearly in different lighting conditions.
At Doig Optometry, we provide specialized care for seniors, offering both eyewear and treatment options to manage age-related eye conditions.
Family Eye Exams in Calgary at Doig Optometry
Scheduling regular eye exams for your entire family ensures everyone’s vision is in good hands. Here’s what you can expect during your family’s visit:
- Comprehensive Eye Exams: From vision tests to eye health screenings, we check for common conditions and provide personalized recommendations for eyewear.
- Customized Eyewear Options: Our optometrists will work with each family member to choose frames and lenses that fit their individual needs and style preferences.
- Convenient Scheduling: We offer flexible eye exam times, including early morning and evening appointments to accommodate busy family schedules.
Book Your Eye Exam in Calgary Today
Finding the right eyewear for your family starts with regular eye exams and personalized care. Whether you’re booking your toddler’s first eye exam, upgrading your teen’s prescription glasses, or managing age-related vision changes, Doig Optometry is here to help. Contact us today to schedule comprehensive eye exams for your whole family, and let us guide you toward better vision and stylish, functional eyewear for every stage of life.