How Old Is 'Old Enough' for Contacts?

Is your child ready for contact lens wear? How old is "old enough"?

Most ophthalmologists don't routinely fit contacts for cosmetic reasons on children younger than 10, according to a survey by the Contact Lens Association of Ophthalmologists (CLAO). The appropriate age is different for each child, however, and is determined by input from the child, parent, and the child's doctor.

Experts say that it's important to have an eye-care professional assess what a child needs in the way of vision correction and to discuss the child's capabilities and maturity level when considering contacts. Personal wear and care regimens may depend upon the type of contact prescribed, the nature of the vision problem being corrected, and the child's unique eye chemistry.

If your child is considering contacts, he or she must be mature enough to be able to handle the day-to-day care of lenses and maintenance. You and your child must be involved in all steps of lens-fitting and follow-up care.

You both need to understand that contact lens wear can be associated with serious, vision-threatening problems, the CLAO says. You must carefully watch for any potential signs of problems, including red eyes, irritation or discomfort, discharge, foreign body sensation, or change in vision. Any problem should be reported to your child’s contact lens specialist immediately.

Regardless of the type of lens your child wears, lens care is now easier and more convenient than ever before, and has become a possibility for many youngsters. Basic lens care includes cleaning, rinsing, disinfecting, and storing with a special solution to keep lenses clean, comfortable, and free from bacteria. Both parents and children should follow the specific instructions given them by their eye-care professional.

For more information on contact lenses, visit the CLAO Web site at http://www.clao.org/.