Age-Related Eye Conditions: Why Early Detection Matters

Summary

Vision loss in older adults is often preventable, but only if it’s caught early. At Eye Check Calgary, we use full-scope diagnostic tools like retinal scans, OCT imaging, and pressure testing to detect age-related eye conditions before they affect your daily life. Whether you’re in Fairview, Southwood, or Lake Bonavista, our team provides thorough, unrushed exams that are fully covered by Alberta Health Care. From silent glaucoma to early macular degeneration, we screen for the most common conditions affecting seniors—often before symptoms appear. If you’re over 65 and haven’t had a recent eye exam, contact Eye Check Calgary to schedule a no-cost visit that protects more than just your vision. 

The Silent Progression of Vision Loss

As we age, eye conditions can develop quietly—without pain, symptoms, or noticeable changes in vision. That’s why older adults often delay care until it’s too late. At Eye Check Calgary, we take the guesswork out of senior eye health by using every exam as an opportunity to detect what you can’t see coming.

We don’t rush through senior exams. In fact, most patients over 65 require longer appointments, and we plan for that. Our process includes retinal imaging, visual field testing, pressure checks, and dilation when needed. These tools help us detect early-stage glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic changes, and even stroke-related nerve damage—often long before patients experience visual symptoms.

We’ve had seniors walk in from other clinics where they were charged for photos but received little explanation. Some were completely unaware they were developing serious conditions. If you're in Willow Park, Oakridge, or Ogden and want peace of mind—not just a new prescription—our team will take the time to examine what matters. 

What’s Included in Our Full-Scope Exams

At Eye Check Calgary, senior eye exams aren’t just about getting a new prescription; they’re about catching problems before they turn into permanent vision loss. Alberta Health Care covers these visits for seniors, and we use every minute of that time to go beyond the basics.

When you visit us—whether you’re from Lake Bonavista, Oakridge, Ogden, or Acadia—you’ll get:

  • OCT imaging, which allows us to look at cross-sections of your retina to detect thinning, fluid buildup, or degeneration
  • Fundus photography, which captures high-resolution images of the back of the eye for ongoing monitoring
  • Eye pressure testing (tonometry) to screen for glaucoma, a condition that causes permanent vision loss without early symptoms
  • Slit-lamp exams to assess your cornea, lens, and anterior eye structures
  • Visual field testing, which checks for blind spots or neurological issues caused by stroke or other conditions
  • Dilation, especially important in patients over 65, to give us a clear and complete view of your retina and optic nerve

We’ve seen seniors come in after exams elsewhere where none of these were done—or they were charged extra for them. Some were told they had “nothing to worry about,” only to discover clear signs of glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or macular changes that had gone undetected.

At Eye Check Calgary, our standard is different. Seniors deserve clear answers and proper diagnostics, not rushed visits or upsells. We treat every senior exam as a medical checkup, not a retail appointment.

And we don’t stop at the diagnosis. If we see something concerning, we don’t send you out the door with a vague suggestion—we walk you through next steps, whether that means additional testing, scheduling a follow-up, or referring you to a specialist. We’ve coordinated emergency care and hospital referrals when needed. If something’s wrong, we catch it—and act on it. 

Contact Eye Check Calgary to Protect Your Vision

From Rosemont to Southwood, seniors across Calgary trust Eye Check Calgary for honest, detailed, and proactive care. Our senior eye exams are fully covered under Alberta Health Care with no surprise fees. We don’t cut corners or rush through appointments—because your vision deserves better. Contact us today to book your full-scope senior exam and stay ahead of age-related vision changes. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Albertans aged 65 and over are eligible for fully covered eye exams through Alberta Health Care. At Theo Buzea Calgary Optometry, seniors never pay out-of-pocket for routine exams. Contact us today to book a comprehensive eye exam. 

We recommend at least one full exam annually, including dilation if needed. According to Alberta Health, seniors are eligible for eye exams twice per year.

Glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy are the most common. Many can be detected early with proper screening.

See Clearly. Feel Confident.

Book your comprehensive eye exam in Calgary with Eye Check Calgary. Whether it’s digital eye strain, dry eyes, diabetes-related vision concerns, or a contact lens fitting, we’ll guide you through every step with care and clarity. Call us today at 587-441-5254.