Eye examinations

During your eye examination your optometrist will:

Carry out a thorough investigation of your vision and determine what strength of lenses you require.
Check the overall health of your eyes
Check the pressure of your eyes
Discuss the results of the eye examination
Discuss any recommendations for spectacles or further referral if necessary. Sometimes spectacles will not provide all the help required, so your optometrist will look at other factors that may help make the most of your vision.

Where communication is more difficult, tests can be adapted to the needs of the patient.

If you are aged 60 and over and unable to leave your home unaccompanied you are entitled to a free NHS sight test at home.

You also qualify for a free NHS sight test if you are unable to leave your home unaccompanied AND you fall into one of the following groups:

you're registered as partially sighted (sight impaired) or blind (severely sight impaired)
you've been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
you're 40 or over, and your mother, father, brother, sister, son or daughter has been diagnosed with glaucoma
you've been advised by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) that you're at risk of glaucoma
you're eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher – your optometrist (optician) can advise you about your entitlement

You (or your partner):

receive Income Support
receive Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (not Contribution-based)
receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
receive Income-based Employment and Support Allowance (not Contribution-based)
are entitled to, or named on, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
are on a low income and named on a valid HC2 (full help) or HC3 (partial help) certificate

If you're unsure, please ask. A private sight test can be arranged for those not entitled to a free NHS eye examination at home.