With so many aspects of healthcare moving online, it’s natural to wonder whether eye exams can also be done virtually. Online vision screenings have become increasingly popular, offering a convenient way to check certain aspects of your vision from home.
 

What a Virtual Vision Screening Can Check

Online vision screenings are designed to give a general snapshot of how well your eyes are functioning. These screenings typically assess how clearly you see both up close and far away, and they may reveal issues related to focusing or clarity. Some tests can also highlight irregularities that may suggest astigmatism, as well as difficulties with color recognition or contrast sensitivity.

In addition, certain visual patterns in your results may point to early changes associated with conditions that affect central vision, such as macular degeneration. If you normally wear glasses or contact lenses, it’s important to use them during the screening so the results reflect your everyday vision as accurately as possible.

It’s important to keep in mind that online vision screenings are informational tools. They are not intended to replace a full eye exam performed by an eye care professional.
 

Why Online Vision Screenings Can Be Helpful

One of the biggest benefits of virtual vision screenings is convenience. They are quick, easy to complete, and can be done from almost anywhere. More importantly, they can serve as an early alert that something may be off with your vision.

For instance, a screening may suggest that you have mild nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism that hasn’t yet been corrected. These types of refractive issues often worsen over time without proper lenses. For adults over 55, online screenings may also reveal subtle changes in vision that could be associated with early stages of macular degeneration. Virtual screenings can help you decide whether it’s time to schedule a visit with your optometrist.
 

Virtual Screenings vs. Comprehensive Eye Exams

Think of an online vision screening as a helpful first step - not a final answer. It can provide insight into your visual clarity and highlight potential concerns, but it does not replace the thorough evaluation performed during an in-office eye exam. A comprehensive exam includes tests that assess eye health, eye pressure, and the overall condition of your retina and optic nerve - critical components of protecting your long-term vision.
 

Take the Next Step at Kopolow & Girisgen

Virtual vision screenings can be a useful and convenient way to monitor your eyesight and recognize when it’s time to see an eye doctor. However, they are not a substitute for a comprehensive eye exam. Regular in-person exams remain essential for detecting serious eye conditions early and preserving your vision for years to come.

If you’ve taken an online vision screening or have concerns about your eyesight, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Kopolow & Girisgen, Doctors of Optometry today. Text GLASSES to 21000, call us at (702) 452-2020, or book an appointment online Here.