At What Age are Spectacle Glasses Required?

At What Age are Spectacle Glasses Required ?

Myopia can manifest itself at a very early age, even in a newborn. The first examination becomes necessary at the age of two years if the mother is in doubt about her child’s eyesight. But, in practice, we have found that a child whose parents are myopic must be examined in the clinic just before entering primary school (KG). As a matter of routine-all pre-school children should have their eyes examined. It is not difficult to obtain the cooperation of a child for a quick and careful examination for any spectacle power. Further detailed examinations of the eyes may need special tests. A small child between two and five years of age will wear glasses for school if he or she has myopia of -2 or more. There is no ground for being apprehensive or fearful. An average child who sees better with glasses will look after them and wear them gladly. But, of crucial importance is that he or she must see better with them. Small children who do not take to wearing glasses despite two or three attempts must not be forced to do so. They should wait till the age of five or six for another detailed examination. Ninety-five per cent of children will see better with glasses and benefit from them. Experience in clinic tells us that parents escorting children need full assurance, counseling and sympathy. A mother easily gets upset when her child is prescribed spectacles.