Visual Health

Regular eye examinations by an optometrist are essential for detecting eye problems and preserving good vision health. It is important to start early, since young children do not know what normal vision is. If not identified early, some eye problems can permanently reduce a child’s vision. 

Optometric Examination
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends the following: 

  • Infants and toddlers should have their first eye examination between the ages of six and nine months.

  • Preschool children should have at least one eye examination between the ages of two and five years.

  • School children aged six to 19 years should have an eye examination annually.

  • Adults aged 20 to 39 years should have an eye examination every two to three years.

  • Adults aged 40 to 64 years should have an eye examination every two years.

  • Adults aged 65 years or older should have an eye examination annually.

A valid Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card covers the cost of an annual eye examination for children and youth aged 0 to 19 years.  

Ontario Association of Optometrists

To find an optometrist, visit the Ontario Association of Optometrists website for a list of doctors in your area.
Assistance with the Cost of Prescription Eyeglasses
 
 Eye See... Eye Learn®
The Eye See... Eye Learn® program encourages parents to book a comprehensive eye exam for their junior kindergarten child with a local, participating optometrist. The cost of the exam is covered by OHIP. If a child needs glasses, they will receive a complimentary pair donated by Nikon Lenswear, OGI and the participating optometrist. The estimated value of the glasses is over $250.

Visit the Eye See…Eye Learn® program's website for age eligibility requirements and a list of participating optometrists. 

 
Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program
Families receiving financial assistance from Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Support Program can contact their caseworker for information on assistance with the cost of prescription eyeglasses.
Low-Income Families
Help with the cost of prescription eyeglasses may be available for low-income families. Call the Community and Social Services Department at 3-1-1 for more information.
Services for Children Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
Ontario’s Blind – Low Vision Early Intervention Program is designed to give children who are born blind or with low vision the best possible start in life. Specialized family-centred services are funded by the province and are available for children from birth to Grade 1.

The program offers three types of services:

  1. Family support
  2. Intervention services
  3. Consultation services

Visit the program website for more information.

Contact Us