Tip: Free eye exams for LI seniors

Seniors who haven't had a routine eye exam in more than three years can get a free checkup through a program sponsored by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. The goal of the tests is to diagnose eye diseases common among older people.

The exams are administered by volunteer ophthalmologists throughout the country. On Long Island, more than a dozen doctors are volunteering their services. To qualify for the exams, you must be a citizen or legal resident, older than 65, and have not been examined by an ophthalmologist in at least three years. The free exam does not include a glaucoma test.

After you complete the application on the academy's website, eyecareamerica.org, you will be assigned a doctor in your area. Be forewarned: The sign-up process is a bit cumbersome, but appointments can be made only on the website.

While Medicare covers some preventive eye tests, including a glaucoma screening once every 12 months, it does not cover routine eye exams such as the ones offered here.