Children’s Eye Care
Did you know that up to 80% of learning in a child’s first 12 years is visual?
Good vision is essential for learning, development, confidence and wellbeing. Yet around one in five children has an undetected vision or eye health issue that may affect their ability to learn and perform at school.
At Total Eyecare, we recommend a comprehensive eye examination before starting school, then every 2–3 years throughout childhood, or more often if advised. We can assess children at every stage of development—even babies—so if you have any concerns about your child’s vision, we’re here to help.
Children rely on clear, comfortable vision for reading, writing, screen use, sport and social interaction. Many vision problems go unnoticed, and children often don’t realise their vision isn’t normal.
While most children don’t need glasses, when they do, correction can significantly improve learning, concentration and confidence.
Some children also experience reading or learning difficulties due to near vision stress or binocular vision imbalances. These can cause symptoms such as headaches, eye strain, losing their place when reading, or avoiding close work, and may impact academic performance. A full eye examination can identify these issues and determine appropriate management.
A comprehensive eye exam can detect conditions including:
- Amblyopia (lazy eye)
- Strabismus (eye turn)
- Hyperopia (long-sightedness)
- Myopia (short-sightedness)
- Astigmatism
- Focusing and binocular vision problems
Myopia Management
Myopia (short-sightedness) is becoming increasingly common in children and often progresses with age, increasing long-term eye health risks if unmanaged.
We offer evidence-based myopia management options including:
- Myopia control spectacle lenses
- Myopia control contact lenses
- Overnight Vision Correction (Ortho-K)
- Lifestyle advice (more outdoor time, reduced sustained near work)
Digital Devices & Eye Health
Prolonged screen use can contribute to eye strain and visual fatigue. Regular breaks, proper viewing distance and outdoor time help reduce symptoms. Blue light lenses may improve comfort for some children, but are not proven to prevent eye disease.
Affordable Care
We bulk bill children’s and student eye exams. Health fund claims can be processed on the spot, and we offer a wide range of children’s frames.
Early detection makes a lasting difference—regular eye exams help give children the best chance to learn, grow and succeed.
Source: Vision Council of America, Making the Grade (2009).
Eye Care for Seniors
As we age, changes in vision are a natural part of life. Regular eye examinations become increasingly important to maintain eye health, independence, and quality of life.
From around the age of 40, most people begin to notice changes in their ability to focus on close objects. This common condition, known as presbyopia, is a normal part of ageing and often results in the need for reading or multifocal glasses.
Ageing also increases the risk of several eye conditions, including:
- Cataracts – clouding of the eye’s natural lens
- Macular Degeneration – deterioration of central vision
- Glaucoma – gradual loss of peripheral vision that can progress if left untreated
- Diabetic Eye Disease – vision changes associated with diabetes
Our experienced optometrists have extensive clinical expertise in detecting, monitoring, and managing these conditions. Where specialist care is required, we can facilitate timely referrals and ongoing co-management.
All Total Eyecare practices are designed to be easily accessible for patients with reduced mobility. We are committed to providing a comfortable, supportive environment where every patient receives the care and attention they deserve.
Overcoming Communication Barriers
Everyone deserves access to quality eye care.
We understand that some patients may have mobility challenges, disabilities, language barriers, or difficulty reading. Our team uses a variety of testing methods and communication techniques to ensure every patient can receive a thorough and effective eye examination.
You do not need to be able to read or speak English fluently to have your eyes tested. We can adapt our approach to meet your individual needs and help ensure that barriers do not stand in the way of your eye health.