How Often Should I Replace My Glasses?

Getting new glasses can be an exciting change for some people, while for others it’s a dreaded event. Whether or not you want to get new ones, however, you might wonder just how often you really need to replace your glasses. 

Dr. Jennifer Andrews and the care team at Urban Eye Care help patients in the Seattle, Washington, area choose the right glasses for their unique needs. We’re also here to help you determine if and when it’s time to replace your current pair. 

Here are a few questions to consider to help you better understand how often you should replace your glasses and if now is the time to schedule a visit!

When was your last eye exam?

The answer to how often you should replace my glasses is, “When your eye doctor tells you it’s time.” Your vision doesn’t follow hard-and-fast rules. Sometimes prescriptions can change in a matter of months; other times they stabilize over years. 

That’s why seeing us for regular eye exams is so important. All adults ages 18-60 should get an exam at least every two years. Dr. Andrews may recommend a yearly exam if you wear glasses or contacts or have an issue with your eyes that affects your vision, like cataracts.

Are you getting headaches or having a hard time seeing?

A sure sign it’s time for a new set of specs is having symptoms that your prescription has changed. Headaches, blurry vision or distortion, and a feeling of relief when you take your glasses off instead of put them on is a sign it’s time for new glasses. 

Even if your current prescription seems fine to you, it may have changed. It’s hard for people to tell when their vision changes until it’s far gone. Wearing an old prescription can negatively impact your eyesight. Dr. Andrews evaluates your vision to ensure your eye health.

What condition are your current glasses in?

Even if your vision hasn’t changed, your glasses may have. If your current lenses are scratched, cracked, or dented. or if the frames are bent, it’s time to replace your glasses. These issues can cause your vision to distort and contribute to eye strain.

How old is your current pair of glasses?

Old glasses aren’t just out of fashion — they may be behind the times in terms of technology. Just as phone and internet technology is changing all the time, so is the way glasses are made. 

New lens and frame technology offers the best in vision improvement. There are also improvements for certain occupations, such as blue-light lenses to help those working long hours on the computer. 

What is your insurance coverage?

Many insurance companies cover the cost of changing your glasses every year. If you don’t take advantage of this annual offer, you can’t carry the benefit over. If it’s been more than a year, check your coverage to make sure you’re not ignoring a benefit. 

For help deciding if it’s time for you to replace your glasses or to schedule an eye exam, call us at Urban Eye Care in Seattle or request an appointment online now.