Eyesight deteriorates naturally as we get older, but many Ontario area seniors aren’t even aware of it. Additionally, as we age, some conditions that interfere with eyesight also become more prevalent, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Even if you think your vision is still at its peak, getting an eye exam every year can help ensure that it stays that way. Below are the top five reasons to get an eye exam if you’re over the age of 65.
Does OHIP cover eye exams for seniors?
1. Your vision changes as you age.
Your eyes change as you age. This can make it difficult to read or watch TV, and may mean it’s time for an eye exam. Vision changes from person to person, so you should get your eyes checked regularly. Every year, one in three Mississauga area seniors will experience a vision problem. An eye exam is the best way to get your eyes checked and detect any problems before they become serious.
If you are over 65 years of age and live in Ontario, the OHIP program covers eye exams for seniors every year. Eye exams for seniors who do not have OHIP coverage can be expensive, so some opt to visit the eye doctor less often. Eye doctors also offer other services such as contacts, eyeglasses and surgery if needed.
2. You’re at risk for certain eye diseases.
You are more likely not just for cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetes-related eye disease but also for age-related macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in seniors over 50 and affects about one in five people. It causes loss of central vision which can lead to distorted or blurred vision. The symptoms of macular degeneration are gradual so you may not notice it right away. In order to prevent blindness in your later years, schedule regular eye exams with a qualified Mississauga area optometrist who specializes in eye exams for seniors covered by OHIP.
3. An eye exam can detect other health problems.
So why is it that eye exams for seniors are covered by OHIP and not for adults? The human brain slows down with age and so does the lenses in your eyes. With these changes, you might need different prescriptions. Doctors can detect common signs of other health problems during eye exams, such as glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration. Besides detecting health problems, getting your eyes tested can also spot symptoms of certain diseases, like diabetes. In case you’re wondering why senior eye exams are funded by OHIP but adult eye exams are not, it’s because the Canadian Association of Optometrists feels it would be unfair to put an undue financial burden on seniors who may not have access to funds otherwise – which many adults do have.
4. It’s covered by OHIP.
Cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration – these are some of the most common eye diseases that affect seniors. The good news is that if you have OHIP coverage and believe you may be at risk for one of these diseases, there’s no need to wait for your annual doctor’s appointment. Eye exams for seniors can be done by any qualified optometrist or ophthalmologist. Here are five reasons why you should make sure you get your eyes checked!
1) Early detection is key. With eye exams for seniors, we can look for signs of disease early on and diagnose the problem before it causes irreversible damage. 2) Reduced risk of blindness.
5. It’s quick and easy.
Are you one of the many seniors who never thought they would need eye exams? Turns out, eye health is important at any age, but it’s more crucial for seniors. And luckily, there are a number of reasons why you should get your eyes checked today.
1) Eye exams are covered by OHIP. 2) Seniors are at greater risk for developing serious eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma. 3) Your prescription may not be right for your new lifestyle (e.g. computer work). 4) Your vision may have changed since the last time you had an exam (e.g., reading or distance). 5) You can find out if you need glasses or contact lenses! Book an exam with us today!
People also ask:
for seniors, OHIP will cover a visit every 12 months to an optometrist plus any follow-ups. This is great news for seniors as regular vision care can help prevent eyesight deterioration over time.
OHIP covers one eye examination every 12 months for insured persons 65 years and older, provided by either an optometrist or physician. Any follow-up assessments that may be required are also covered.
OHIP covers the cost of one major eye exam (for vision and general eye health) every 12 months, plus any minor assessments you need, but only if you are: 19 years and younger or 65 years and older.
Optometrists in Mississauga Ontario are conducting eye exams for children and seniors.
Annual eye exams are fully covered by OHIP for children (19 or younger) and for seniors (65 or older). For adults between the ages of 20-64 years old, routine eye exams aren’t covered by OHIP and will need to be paid out of pocket or through a private insurance.
OHIP covers the cost of visiting a Mississauga area optometrist for a major eye exam (for vision and general eye health) every 12 months, plus any minor assessments you need, but only if you are: 19 years and younger. 65 years and older
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