FAQ - Glasses, Opticians, Vision

How often should I have an eye test?

It’s recommended that everyone should have an eye test every two years. As we get older, there are a number of ocular problems that occur in our eyes but have no obvious symptoms and do not affect vision at that time. These include macular degeneration, glaucoma or cataract and can be picked up in a good professional eye examination carried out by a qualified optometrist or ophthalmic optician.

Are there different types of eye tests?

A standard eye test consists of an external eye examination, vision assessment and internal eye examination. It also includes checks for glaucoma, retinal integrity, visual fields, and where appropriate, a number of contact lens measurements.

Some people applying for a driving license require a screening examination that only an optometrist can carry out. The applicant receives an eyesight report (D509) which remains valid for one month from the date of issue.

People who use computers for work are required to have an assessment for vision difficulties because of their exposure to visual display units (VDU’s) over time. We regularly screen individuals in the workplace for such problems.

Can anyone wear contact lenses?

Thanks to ongoing research and development, contact lenses are more comfortable and user friendly than ever. We provide a free trial, and after careful assessment, find that most people are suitable and experience no problems or side effects.

Can I improve my sporting performance, lower my golf score or play better tennis by improving my vision?

Have you ever worried that your eyes are exposed to danger in your sport? Danger comes from exposure to the sun or to trauma in the sport itself.

Do you put up with poor vision rather than wear a correction during sport? Donal MacNally Opticians provides the athlete with all the information required to decide when and where to act or move. This information is critical to good performance and if you can see better, it follows that you can play better.

Donal MacNally Opticians has a specialist service available with the following professional activities.

Prevention of sport eye injuries

Assessment and remedy of vision problems in sport
Specialised contact lens service for sports
Specialized frame, lens, and protective devices for sports