(NAPSI)—There’s a reason you shouldn’t skip your routine eye exam — and many people don’t even know about it. A growing body of research shows that vision loss can affect how well your brain works. The most recent study found that people who scored poorly on vision tests were more likely to suffer from deficits in memory, language, and the ability to identify and locate objects in space. To protect your brain, get an eye exam to make sure correctable vision problems are detected and treated. The American Academy of Ophthalmology and Eye Care Vision Associates recommends that all adults receive a comprehensive eye exam by age 40, and every year or two after age 65. 

Here are three more reasons to get your eyes examined

  1. The leading causes of blindness— including glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration can begin without any noticeable symptoms. The best way to protect your vision is by seeing an ophthalmologist, a physician who specializes in medical and surgical eye care.  
  2. Seeing an ophthalmologist can improve your overall health. Blood vessels and nerves in your eyes reflect your overall body health. Ophthalmologists are sometimes the first to diagnose systemic diseases like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or vitamin deficiencies. For example, one patient’s ophthalmologist detected signs of a blood clot just by looking into his eyes, helping save his life and avoiding a stroke. 
  3. Some adults shouldn’t wait until they are 40 to have a complete eye exam. See an ophthalmologist now if you have an eye disease or risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease.

If cost is a concern, you may be eligible to receive help from the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeCare America program. Learn more about this program for you or someone you care for at www.aao.org/eyecare-america.