How Often Should You Update Your Glasses? Signs It’s Time for a Change

Many people hold onto their glasses longer than they should, often not realizing that outdated prescriptions and worn-out frames can negatively impact their vision and comfort. Here’s what you need to know about when to replace your glasses and why regular eye exams play a critical role in keeping your vision sharp.

Blurred or Distorted Vision

If your glasses no longer provide crisp, clear vision, it could be a sign that your prescription needs to be adjusted. Blurred vision, double vision, or difficulty focusing on fine details—such as reading small text or recognizing faces from a distance—may indicate that your eyes are working harder than they should. Ignoring these changes can lead to increased eye fatigue and discomfort over time. Additionally, if straight lines appear wavy or objects look stretched or distorted, it could be a sign of worsening astigmatism.

Frequent Headaches and Eye Strain

Uncorrected vision changes can place excessive strain on your eyes, leading to frequent headaches, particularly after prolonged screen use, reading, or other close-up work. You may notice discomfort around your temples, forehead, or even behind your eyes. Squinting to bring objects into focus or experiencing tired, dry, or irritated eyes at the end of the day are additional signs that your prescription may no longer be effective. Chronic eye strain can reduce productivity and affect daily tasks, making it essential to schedule an eye exam.

Difficulty Seeing at Night

If nighttime driving has become more challenging, it might be time to update your prescription. Increased glare from headlights, halos around lights, or difficulty adjusting between bright and dark conditions can indicate that your current lenses aren’t providing adequate correction. These issues can make it harder to judge distances and react to sudden changes on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. An updated prescription with anti-glare coatings can help enhance night vision and improve driving safety.

Outdated or Damaged Frames

Even if your prescription remains stable, old, worn-out, or damaged frames can impact both comfort and functionality. Scratched lenses can cause visual distortions, reducing clarity and leading to eye strain. Bent or loose frames that no longer fit properly can slide down your nose, requiring frequent adjustments, or may press uncomfortably on your temples. Investing in a well-fitting, durable pair of glasses ensures better vision, comfort, and confidence in your daily activities.

Changes in Eye Health

Certain eye conditions, such as astigmatism, presbyopia, or dry eye syndrome, can develop or worsen over time, affecting how well your current prescription meets your needs. If you've recently been diagnosed with an eye condition or notice increased sensitivity to light, difficulty shifting focus between distances, or discomfort wearing your current glasses, updating your prescription is crucial. Specialized lenses, such as progressive lenses for presbyopia or blue-light filtering lenses for digital eye strain, can provide significant relief and improve overall eye health.

The Importance of Annual Eye Exams

Your vision can change gradually, making it difficult to notice when an update is needed. Annual comprehensive eye exams ensure that your prescription is current and help detect early signs of eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Regular exams also allow your optometrist to recommend specialized lenses, such as blue light filtering or progressive lenses, to enhance your visual experience.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

Updating your glasses regularly is essential for maintaining clear vision, reducing eye strain, and ensuring long-term eye health. If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, it may be time for a new prescription or a fresh pair of frames.

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Dussan Eye Care to ensure your vision is at its best.  Visit our office in Long Island City, New York, or call (718) 784-3960 today.