Regular eye tests are essential for making the most of your vision and maintaining overall eye health. Eye examinations are more than vision tests, they can help to identify other health conditions including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
How often you need an eye test depends on your age, health and other risk factors. Adults are recommended to see their Optician every 2 years for an eye examination, but for adults who have other health conditions, or are at risk, often your Optician will recommend a test every 12 months. For those under 19 and in full time education the NHS offers eye tests every 6-12 months depending on whether glasses are needed and the recommendation of the Optician. NHS provision is also available for those over 60. These are however guidelines, and it is advisable to seek advice at any point if you have any concerns about your vision or eye health.
OCT Scan (Optical Coherence Tomography)
OCT is an imaging test that takes detailed images of the retina and optic nerve. It can help to detect and monitor various eye conditions that might not be identified in a standard eye examination. As many eye conditions develop gradually an OCT scan can pick up changes up to 5 years earlier than a regular eye test allowing for earlier intervention if required. The scan is non invasive and only takes a few seconds. It is recommended for everyone over 40 especially if you have any eye or health conditions or are at risk.
If it is advised that you need a correction for your vision, there are many options that we can advise you on. You may be aware that there are contact lenses, lenses for distance or reading, varifocals and lenses that change colour but there are lots of other solutions too.
Computer Lenses (sometimes called Office lenses)
These lenses are ideal for use on a PC or Laptop or for hobbies where a longer working range is required. They have a small variation in the focus on the lens and can be the perfect solution for multitasking such as a meeting where you need to see a laptop and presentation or bookkeeping when both close reading and screen need to be in focus.
Relax Lenses (also known as Boost lenses)
Designed to help relieve digital eye strain these lenses are especially good for people who spend long hours on digital devices. They help by making it easier to transition between near and far vision. These are great for individuals who don’t need full reading glasses but experience discomfort when using screens. A blue light filter is often added and can help enhance visual comfort.
Varifocals (Progressive Power lenses)
When the time comes for varifocals, the options are extensive. Questions about your lifestyle help us to advise you on the best lens to give you good, comfortable vision at all distances. The latest individualised lenses are designed to give a seamless transition between near, intermediate and distance vision. We ask you about how you use your eyes each day and take lots of detailed measurements of the glasses you have chosen so the lenses are optimised for your face and vision. These customised lenses minimise distortions, offering a smoother transition between each vision zone and allowing for a quicker adaptation.
Harrold Opticians offers a comprehensive audiology service too. Our fully qualified and experienced audiologist can check your ear health, perform wax removal and do a full assessment of your hearing ability. Did you know that 1 in 6 people over 55 would benefit from support with their hearing? With real world hearing technology trials available and impartial advice for all hearing concerns it makes sense to have regular hearing checks.
Did you know Harrolds Opticians is a family-run group of independent practices across the South of England established in 1932? The Banbury branch has been located in the High Street for over 30 years so you can be assured that we have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you with anything related to eyes. We stock a wide range of models from all over the world from well-known designer brands to smaller up and coming innovators in eyewear design. We can source nearly any shape or style. If you don’t know what you want, our friendly, caring, and knowledgeable team take great interest in advising you on the best shape and colour for your face whilst ensuring a perfect fit and precise vision. There is nothing more rewarding and pleasing than seeing someone enjoying their new eyewear and telling us how many compliments they have received.
Come and see our newly refitted practice where you can expect a warm and friendly welcome and receive exceptional hearing and eye care.
