In today’s fast-moving, digitally focused world, looking after our eyes often falls to the bottom of the to-do list. Whether we’re working on computers, scrolling through phones, or just caught up in the busyness of life, it’s easy to forget how crucial our eyesight is—until something goes wrong. But in a place like Canberra, we are fortunate to have access to excellent healthcare services, and there’s a strong case to be made for making eye health a community priority.
Promoting eye health isn’t just about seeing better—it’s about early detection of chronic diseases, staying independent as we age, and improving the quality of life for all community members. As a frontline health service, optometry plays a central role in this effort.
The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Vision
Poor eye health often goes unnoticed until it starts to impact daily activities—reading, driving, recognising faces, or working comfortably on a computer. In many cases, people adapt to blurry vision or discomfort, unaware that it could be a sign of a more serious issue.
Eye conditions like glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy are known as “silent” diseases because they often develop without symptoms in the early stages. By the time vision loss becomes noticeable, the damage can be permanent. The good news? Regular eye exams can detect these conditions early, monitored, and treated—often before any symptoms appear.
In Canberra, we have a diverse and growing population—including young families, professionals, university students, and an increasing number of older residents. Each group faces its own set of eye health challenges. Digital eye strain and undiagnosed vision problems can affect the performance and well-being of students and office workers. The risk of vision-threatening conditions for older adults increases significantly after age 60. This makes routine eye checks vital to proactive health care across all age groups.
Why Eye Health Is Public Health
Clear vision is about more than just convenience—it’s fundamental to participation in daily life. Children with undiagnosed vision issues may struggle at school. Adults with poor vision may find it challenging to work or drive. Older people with low vision are at greater risk of falls, social isolation, and depression.
Good eye health also contributes to overall public health. Optometrists don’t just assess vision; they play a key role in detecting early signs of systemic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, neurological disorders, and autoimmune diseases. An eye exam may be the first time these issues are flagged in many cases—making optometry an essential part of the broader health system.
Integrating eye health into broader preventative health initiatives is key in Canberra, where we’re lucky to have world-class public and private healthcare services. Whether through collaborative care with GPs and specialists or community outreach programs, optometrists are well-placed to lead this charge.
The Role of Optometry in Canberra
Optometrists are highly trained primary healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive eye examinations, manage eye diseases, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, and refer to ophthalmologists when advanced care is needed. But more importantly, optometrists are educators and advocates for eye health.
In our clinic—Capital Eye—we see first-hand how early intervention changes lives. The impact is real and lasting, whether it’s fitting a child with their first pair of glasses or diagnosing glaucoma in its earliest stages. Everyone in Canberra deserves access to high-quality, culturally respectful eye care regardless of age, background, or ethnicity.
Canberra is uniquely positioned with urban convenience and access to surrounding rural and regional communities. Our eye care services must reflect that diversity. That means making services accessible not only in the city but also to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse groups, and those living in areas where specialist services may be limited.
Through collaboration with Canberra Health Services, The Canberra Hospital, and community health partners, we continue to develop and advocate for referral pathways and outreach programs that close the gap in access and outcomes.
The Importance of Eye Tests
Many people don’t know how often they should get their eyes checked—or assume that if they can see “fine,” there’s no need. But regular eye exams are essential even for people without symptoms.
Here are some quick facts every Canberran should know:
- Children should have their first eye exam before starting school and then regularly throughout their school years.
- Adults under 65 should have an eye test every two years or more frequently if they have risk factors.
- Adults over 65 should have annual eye exams as age-related eye conditions become more common.
- People with diabetes need annual eye checks to monitor for diabetic retinopathy.
- Screen users—which includes most of us—should follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
If you couldn’t remember the last time you had your eyes tested, it is time to see your optometrist in Canberra.
Making Eye Care Accessible to All
At Capital Eye, we aim to ensure everyone has access to the care they need and when and where they need it. In Canberra, this includes ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities receive culturally safe, consistent, and community-led eye care.
We must also continue advocating for coordinated care between optometry, general practice, and ophthalmology. This improves health outcomes, reduces hospital waitlists, and ensures patients receive the proper care at the right time.
The Bottom Line
If it’s been a while since your last eye test, there’s no better time than now to book one. Even if you’re not experiencing problems, a comprehensive exam can detect issues early and give you peace of mind.
At Capital Eye, we’re passionate about helping our Canberra community protect their vision and overall health. Whether you need new glasses, advice on digital eye strain, or a thorough check-up for an existing condition, we’re here to help—personally, professionally, and with care.