The College of Optometrists

30 August 2007

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RNIB Eye Test Action Day on Wednesday 12 September 2007 aims to increase understanding of the importance of eye health and increase take-up of regular eye tests.

The Day’s message is that 50 per cent of sight loss is avoidable: many conditions could be prevented or treated if caught early enough, yet 31 per cent of adults fail to have their eyes tested regularly.

This year the campaign will predominately be targeting people over the age of 60 [for whom eye tests are free every two years from 60 to 69 and every year over 70].

A campaign report will be published by RNIB in September on older people’s attitudes to eye tests and the barriers to regular testing despite their entitlement to free tests.

RNIB have produced Eye Test Action Day posters and leaflets detailing what's included in an eye test, who is eligible for a free test and how to get a test, which may be useful to display in windows and other public interfaces for browsers. If you would like to order copies to display in your practices, aimed at younger as well as older audiences, please contact RNIB Customer Services on 0845 702 3153 or e-mail