What to expect It's important for adults to have checkup eye exams on a regular basis to check for eye problems. Regular eye exams are critical for detecting glaucoma as well as other diseases such as Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts and diabetic retinopathy. It is recommended that those over 65 should go to their eye doctor once every two years. Medicare covers the cost of your examination so we fully encourage you to take advantage of this benefit which may very well save your sight. Preparing for Your Eye Exam When you call for your appointment, briefly and clearly describe any vision problem you're having. Before you go, list questions for the eye doctor. Be prepared to discuss any drugs you're taking and your (and your family's) eye health history. When you go, take your glasses and/or contact lenses, if you use them, and sunglasses for the trip home with your pupils dilated. During Your Eye Exam Before your eye exam, the eye doctor or an office staff member will take your medical and vision history. Your eye exam may take from half an hour to an hour. It will evaluate both your vision and the health of your eyes. You'll likely have all or most of the following eye tests (you may also have more specialized eye tests):       • Eye muscle Eye muscle movement       • External exam and pupillary reactions       • Visual acuity test       • Retinoscopy       • Refraction testing       • Cover test       • Slit-lamp (biomicroscope)       • Retinal examination (ophthalmoscopy)       • Glaucoma testing       • The applanation tonometer test       • Pachymetry       • Pupil dilation (enlargement)       • Visual field test (perimetry)