The majority of people aged 60 and over are aware that the main purpose of an eye test was to detect eye disease early (59%) and a further 15% thought that the main purpose was to check the general health of the eyes. Differences in perception were found amongst demographic groups; most notably, people in lower-income groups were more likely to regard checking to see if a new prescription is required as the main reason. When asked about their own motivations for attending an eye test, 23% said this was because they knew that their optician could detect non-sight-related health issues. Taking up their eligibility for free eye tests was not a key motivating factor and was mentioned by just 1%. For those who had not had an eye test in the previous 2 years the main reason was that they did not think that there was anything wrong with their sight.