How to tell if your glasses prescription needs an update

Recognize the signs of an outdated prescription and learn how to take advantage of vision benefits for clearer, healthier eyesight.

Wearing old glasses can cause problems for the eyes. Blurry vision, headaches and tired eyes are all signs that a prescription may no longer be right. Squinting to see things clearly is another clue that something has changed.

Eyes can change over time, especially with age. Spending a lot of time looking at screens can also affect how well a person sees. No matter the reason, taking care of eye health is important. Knowing the signs of vision changes can help prevent discomfort and protect eyesight in the future.

Why an up-to-date prescription matters

Glasses can only help vision if the prescription is correct. When it’s too weak or too strong, the eyes must work harder to see clearly. This can lead to problems like blurry vision, tired eyes and headaches.¹

Wearing the wrong prescription every day can also cause trouble with daily activities like reading or working on a screen. It may even affect balance or make driving less safe, especially at night.

Over time, using an outdated prescription can make the eyes feel more strained. Keeping the prescription up to date helps the eyes stay comfortable and healthy.

Signs of an outdated glasses prescription

1. Squinting often to see clearly

Squinting helps the eyes focus but doing it too much may mean something is wrong. People often squint when:

Reading small print
Seeing signs from far away
Looking at screens

This is a common sign that the current prescription no longer works well. Over time, squinting can also lead to eye strain and discomfort.

2. Tired eyes after using screens

Many people spend hours each day looking at phones, computers or tablets. When eyes are working harder than they should, they can become tired or sore.² It may feel like the eyes are burning, dry or heavy. If screen time leads to tired eyes often, the prescription may need an update.

Still need to tap your UnitedHealthcare Vision allowance for glasses? Consider ordering them from the same convenient online location. Shop now.

3. Frequent headaches

Headaches that happen often might be caused by vision issues, especially if they occur after reading or screen use. When glasses are no longer the right strength, the eyes have to work harder to focus.¹ This can lead to pain in the head or around the eyes.

4. Trouble seeing clearly at night

Seeing in low light becomes harder when vision is not sharp. This may be most noticeable when driving at night or trying to read in dim lighting. Streetlights and headlights may look blurry or have halos around them. Trouble with night vision can be dangerous and often means it’s time to check the prescription.

Other signs that may appear

In some cases, other small signals can point to an outdated prescription. These may include:

Needing to hold books or phones farther away or closer than before
Rubbing the eyes often during the day
Feeling dizzy or off-balance after looking at screens
Noticing that old glasses no longer help as much

Even small changes in vision can affect daily life. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to how the eyes feel and perform.

Stay on top of your eye health with an in-network provider. Search for an eye care provider now.

How to update a glasses prescription

Most people need an eye exam every one to two years. The exact timing depends on age, health and any vision changes. Notice any of the signs above? Make an appointment with an eye care provider to see if it’s time for a new glasses prescription.

Good news: United Healthcare Vision plans cover exams with an in-network provider. The plan also offers an allowance toward a pair of glasses. UnitedHealthcare Vision members even get discounts for ordering their glasses online. Here are a few of the perks:

Save up to 50% off by ordering glasses frames online
Save $25 on blue-light glasses and readers by entering the code UHCM25 at checkout

Sources

Can Wearing an Old Prescription Affect My Eyes? Optometrist Network
Computer Vision Syndrome. American Optometric Association

How to tell if your glasses prescription needs an update

Why an up-to-date prescription matters