Don't overlook getting a comprehensive dilated eye exam

The National Eye Institute recommends that everyone 60 and older get a comprehensive dilated eye exam once every two years. Unlike a basic eye screening, a dilated eye exam is far better at finding serious problems that can be silently lurking and can catch them early. Among the eye diseases a dilated eye exam can spot are age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma.

Medicare typically doesn't cover the cost of dilated eye exams, with these exceptions: It will cover most of the costs for those with diabetes or a family history of glaucoma or for African-Americans 50 and older or Latinos 65 and older. Some private insurance and Medicare Advantage plans include eye-exam coverage that will pick up most of the costs.

The National Eye Institute has several videos on eye health, including what you can expect during a comprehensive dilated eye exam, at nwsdy.li/videosnei.