Whether you wear glasses every day or just for specific tasks like reading or driving, it’s important to make sure that your prescription is up-to-date. Many people continue wearing old glasses for years, unaware that changes in vision may be affecting their quality of life—or even their health. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time for an update, our Scottsdale eye care team at Doctor My Eyes breaks down how long glasses prescriptions typically last, what happens when your prescription is outdated, and why staying current matters for your eyes and overall well-being.
How Long Are Glasses Prescriptions Valid?
In most states, glasses prescriptions are valid for one to two years, depending on your age and individual eye health. The American Optometric Association recommends adults have a comprehensive eye exam every two years, and annually if you’re over 60 or have underlying conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Children and teens may need more frequent evaluations, especially during growth spurts when vision can change rapidly.
Even if your prescription hasn’t technically expired, it's important to monitor for changes in your vision or comfort. Prescription strength isn't the only reason to get your eyes checked—eye exams can also detect early signs of glaucoma, cataracts, and other health issues.
Is It Bad to Wear Old Prescription Glasses? 
Wearing old glasses isn’t inherently dangerous. Though it doesn't do any permanent damage to your eyes, it can lead to unnecessary strain, poor visual clarity, and reduced quality of life. When your eyes work harder to compensate for an outdated prescription, you may find yourself squinting or over-focusing, which can cause physical symptoms like headaches or neck tension.
An old prescription can also make everyday tasks like driving, reading, or using a computer more difficult. In some cases, it could even be unsafe—particularly if your depth perception or reaction time is affected while driving.
More importantly, skipping regular eye exams in favor of wearing old glasses could cause you to miss signs of more serious eye conditions. Eye health is closely tied to overall wellness, and comprehensive exams can detect issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and neurological disorders—often before other symptoms appear.
Symptoms of an Expired Glasses Prescription
If your vision seems off, your old prescription might be to blame. Here are some common signs that it's time for an update:
- Blurry vision, especially at certain distances
- Frequent headaches after reading or screen time
- Eye strain or fatigue, particularly in the evening
- Difficulty focusing when switching between near and far objects
- Squinting to see clearly
- Dizziness or nausea when wearing your glasses
Don't wait until your vision gets blurry and your eyes get tired! Stop by our Scottsdale eye clinic today for a comprehensive eye exam and an update for your glasses, so you can keep seeing clearly and comfortably for years to come!