When you visit us for a routine eye exam — or as some say, “just because nothing’s wrong”— you’re doing something powerful. Annual eye exams not only protect vision — they help safeguard your overall health. In Sioux Falls, we believe preventive care is peace of mind.
Why Preventive Eye Care Is Essential in Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls is growing. The area has many families, retirees, and working professionals who juggle busy lives. With more screen time — whether for work, entertainment, or staying connected during long Nebraska winters — our eyes are under stress. Seniors in our community are also at risk of conditions like glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and macular degeneration, which often develop quietly.
Given our climate — bright summers, intense sun glare, and dry air in colder months — UV damage, eye strain, and dry eyes are common complaints. And while Sioux Falls has good access to eye care providers, many adults delay going in for an exam until something feels wrong. By then, diseases may have progressed.
Annual comprehensive eye exams are key to catching changes early — before symptoms show. Early detection of eye disease can mean better outcomes, less aggressive treatment, and preserving usable vision longer.
What Happens During a Comprehensive Eye Exam
When you come in to see a family eye doctor in Sioux Falls, a comprehensive exam does more than check your prescription. It includes:
- Vision sharpness tests (reading charts, etc.)
- Eye health evaluation (looking at retina, optic nerve, blood vessels)
- Checking for eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration
- Screening for systemic health issues (e.g., high blood pressure, diabetes), which often show signs in the eyes before elsewhere
- Checking how your eyes work together—depth perception, alignment, focusing
- Discussion about lifestyle: screen habits, outdoor exposure, glare, and UV protection
Beyond 20/20: What Eye Exams Really Reveal
Many people assume that passing a vision screening or having 20/20 vision means their eyes are completely healthy — but that’s only part of the story. A visual acuity test measures how well you see at 20 feet, but it doesn’t assess your eye’s internal health. Comprehensive eye exams detect serious eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and other hidden vision problems long before symptoms appear.
That’s why we stress the importance of seeing a family eye doctor in Sioux Falls, even if you think your vision is fine or you already wear corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses. Annual exams are about preventing vision loss, not just fixing what you can already see.
Real Stories from Our Community
- John, 62, Retiree — John assumed that struggling to read in a dim light at night was a normal part of aging. But during his annual eye, our team detected early glaucoma. Because it was caught early, treatment has been much easier and more effective.
- Maria, 45, Office Worker — With remote work, her daily screen time surged. She was having headaches and blurry vision after long afternoons. Her exam revealed that digital strain and beginning cataract changes needed monitoring.
- Linda, 75, Sioux Falls Senior — She never missed her exams. When we screened her for macular degeneration, we were able to recommend nutritional changes and lifestyle adjustments that help slow progression.
How Our Eye Doctors Help Adults & Seniors Stay Ahead
At The Eye Guys, we emphasize preventive care and build long-term relationships. Here’s how we help:
- We encourage annual eye exams for all adults over 40, or earlier if risk factors like family history or health issues (e.g., hypertension, diabetes) are present.
- We offer early detection testing with modern imaging tools, ensuring that diseases often called “silent,” like glaucoma, are caught before you notice symptoms.
- We tailor care: for seniors, lenses and frame choices that comfort night driving; for adults, recommendations on reducing digital eye strain.
- We make eye care accessible: convenient appointment times, insurance support, friendly staff, and “eye exam near me” availability so you don’t have to travel far.
Stay Ahead of Vision Changes—Schedule Your Comprehensive Exam
Don’t wait until vision loss or discomfort forces you to act. Prevention matters, early detection is powerful, and your eyes deserve care every year.
Stay ahead of vision changes — schedule your comprehensive eye exam with us today. Book your eye care appointment with your local eye care Sioux Falls team (adults, seniors, families) and let us partner with you to keep vision clear, comfort high, and eyes healthy for the long run.
Eye Exam FAQ: What Sioux Falls Patients Want to Know
How much is an eye exam?
Eye exam costs vary depending on the services you need. At The Eye Guys in Sioux Falls, we accept many insurance plans to help cover your visit. For patients paying out of pocket, we offer transparent pricing—call us for details or book online for quick estimates.
What is refraction in an eye exam?
Refraction is the part of your exam where we determine your exact prescription for glasses or contact lenses. It involves looking through a series of lenses to find the one that gives you the sharpest vision.
How long do eye exams take?
A standard comprehensive eye exam usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re getting additional tests (like dilation or contact lens fittings), it might take a bit longer—but we always aim to respect your time.
How long do eyes stay dilated after an exam?
After dilation, your eyes may stay blurry or sensitive to light for about 4 to 6 hours. We recommend bringing sunglasses and avoiding screen time or close-up work until your vision returns to normal.
What diseases can be detected in an eye exam?
A thorough eye exam can help detect more than just vision problems. We can spot early signs of diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, high blood pressure, and even some neurological conditions—all by examining your eyes.