The Importance of Regular Eye Check-ups for Every Age

Filipino ophthalmologist in eye clinic in Binan

Needing to wear glasses and struggling to see boils down to one thing: eye health. Regular eye check-ups at Unihealth Southwoods Eye Center can help detect problems early, from minor vision issues to serious conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy.

The truth is, our eyes go through changes as we age, and without regular check-ups, small problems can become big ones.

Just like your heart or your teeth, your eyes need routine care. With Unihealth Southwoods Hospital and Medical Center, it’s never too early or too late to start caring for your  health. 

With the partnership of Calamba Medical Center’s Eye Center and Unihealth-Southwoods Hospital and Medical Center (USHMC), it brings together two of Laguna’s leading healthcare institutions to deliver world-class eye care.Here at  Unihealth Southwoods Eye Center (USEC), we believe protecting your vision begins with consistent, expert-led care.

What Is a Comprehensive Eye Exam?

Tests Included in a Full Eye Exam  

A full eye examination isn’t just about reading letters on a chart.

At USEC, you’ll experience a full evaluation of your vision and the health of your eyes led by experienced eye doctors:

  • Comprehensive evaluation by ophthalmologists
  • Visual acuity testing for sharpness and clarity
  • Eye muscle & alignment checks
  • Retinal and optic nerve analysis using advanced diagnostics like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
  • Screenings for glaucoma, cataracts, and retina diseases

Recommendations for treatment or surgery, if necessary

Difference Between Vision Screening and Eye Exam

A vision screening is a quick test that detects basic problems. It’s usually done at school or work. But a comprehensive eye exam, like those offered at Unihealth Southwoods Hospital, digs deeper to find hidden or serious eye conditions early.

When to See an Eye Doctor by Age Group 

Eye doctor examining a child

At our Eye Center, we provide eye care for all ages, from children to seniors:

Children and Teens  

Impact on Learning and Development  

Did you know that according to a UCLA study, 80% of learning happens through the eyes?
If a child has undiagnosed vision problems, it can lead to poor academic performance, low self-esteem, and even behavioral issues. A routine eye check-up can detect these early and prevent setbacks.

Adults (20s to 40s)

Screen Time and Eye Strain

In this highly digital society, being constantly glued to screens has been another new-normal! But long hours of screen time can lead to digital eye strain, dry eyes, and blurry vision.

An eye exam can help determine if you need blue light filters, eye drops, or corrective lenses.

Middle Age (40s to 60s)

Presbyopia and Age-Related Changes  

At this stage, most people experience presbyopia, which is difficulty seeing things up close. It’s completely normal, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it.

Regular check-ups can help adjust prescriptions and monitor any emerging issues.

Seniors (60+)  

Glaucoma, Cataracts, and Macular Degeneration  

This is the high-alert stage. Conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration often develop without obvious symptoms. Early detection is key to preventing vision loss, and routine check-ups can literally save your sight.

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

Recommended Frequency by Age Group  

  • Children (3–5 years): At least once
  • School-age (6–18 years): Every 1–2 years
  • Adults (19–40 years): Every 2 years
  • Ages 41–60: Every 1–2 years
  • 60+: Annually

High-Risk Individuals  

If you have a family history of eye disease, wear contact lenses, or have chronic conditions like diabetes, you need more frequent exams—as often as your doctor recommends.

Common Signs You Need an Eye Check

Here are the warning signs that you need an eye check:

  • Blurry or distorted vision
  • Eye strain or frequent headaches
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Difficulty seeing at night
  • Redness or discharge
  • Seeing floaters or flashes

Conditions an Eye Exam Can Detect Early  

Eye care equipment with an eye doctor

USEC’s eye exams can help detect numerous conditions, including:

  • Cataracts
  • Glaucoma
  • Diabetic eye disease
  • Macular degeneration
  • Retinal detachments
  • Neurological conditions affecting vision

Eye Check-Ups and Digital Eye Strain

With increased screen time, many patients suffer from digital eye strain, especially office workers and students. Symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, or neck strain are common.Our Automated Visual Field (Perimetry) and comprehensive evaluations help diagnose and manage these symptoms effectively.

Vision Screening for Children

A child’s eyesight is critical for development. At USEC, Pediatric Ophthalmology services include early detection of refractive errors, lazy eye, and eye misalignment. This ensures kids stay on track in school and life.Additionally, getting a pediatric physical exam and health assessment can help detect problems. Book your pedia check-up today!

Eye Exams for Diabetics  

Diabetes can silently affect your vision. Our retina specialists and diagnostic tools like OCT and Biometry allow us to:

  • Monitor diabetic eye changes
  • Prevent vision loss through early intervention
  • Provide treatment plans including laser therapy or surgery if needed

The Role of Eye Centers in Preventive Care

As a specialized eye center, USEC offers more than just eye check-ups. We’re equipped to handle:

  • Oculoplastic and orbital surgeries
  • Cataract and glaucoma procedures
  • Low vision rehabilitation
  • Strabismus surgery for children and adults

Our diagnostic and surgical services ensure that every patient receives complete, compassionate care.

Unihealth Southwoods Eye Center (USEC)

Eye center in Binan, Unihealth Southwoods Eye Center

Established on October 13, 2021, Unihealth-Southwoods Eye Center (USEC) is the result of a partnership between Calamba Eye Center and Unihealth Southwoods Hospital and Medical Center (USHMC). With these two trusted hospitals in Laguna, Lagunenos are given a great chance to have their eye health in check.

Our Eye Center is committed to delivering comprehensive eye care for patients of all ages. Backed by a team of experienced Filipino ophthalmologists and advanced diagnostic technology, we aim to protect and preserve your vision through early detection, accurate diagnosis, and expert treatment.

Conclusion

Your eyes work hard for you every day. It would be a shame for you to take them for granted. No matter how old you are, routine eye check-ups are essential to maintaining not just your vision, but your overall health.
If you’re in Binan, Laguna, you’re in luck! Unihealth Southwoods Hospital offers expert eye care for every age.

Book your eye exam today and see the world clearer tomorrow!

FAQs

1. At what age should a child have their first eye exam?
As early as age 3, or sooner if symptoms appear.

2. How long does a comprehensive eye exam take?
Usually around 30 to 60 minutes.

3. Are eye exams painful?
Not at all! You might experience some light sensitivity if your eyes are dilated, but that’s it.

4. Can an eye exam detect diseases not related to vision?
Yes. Conditions like diabetes and hypertension can show early signs in the eyes.5. Is Unihealth Southwoods Hospital open on weekends for eye check-ups?
Our Eye Center is open Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
For eye center concerns and schedule of Ophthalmologist, you may contact, 0995-6312-2405, or you may check our Doctors’ Schedule