EyeCare America offers certain eye care services for free through a nationwide network of ophthalmologists (eye doctors), helping more than 2.2 million patients with eye-saving resources and programs including their: 

• Seniors Program (for people age 65 years or older):  A no-cost eye exam, as well as some follow-up care for conditions that are diagnosed during the exam.
• Glaucoma Program (for people who are at risk of glaucoma):  Qualifying services for people who have glaucoma, a chronic eye disease that damages the optic nerve, leading to vision loss and blindness. Risk is associated with age, race, or family history. 

Eyeglasses, prescription drugs, hospital services, and fees for other medical professionals are not included in this program. 

How do I know if I qualify?

To see if you qualify, for either of the programs listed above, all you need to do is answer a few short questions on the EyeCare America website. Once you fill out the form, you will get an immediate response. If you qualify, you'll get a referral to make an appointment with an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) in your area.  

See If You Qualify for Vision Benefits

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I qualify for these vision benefits?

Use the checklists below to see if you could qualify, then fill out the form to confirm your qualifications and obtain a referral. EyeCare America will never share your information, and they will only contact you if you qualify.

To qualify for the Seniors Program you must:  

• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident 
• Be age 65 or older 
• Not belong to an HMO or have eye care benefits through the VA 
• Not seen an ophthalmologist in three or more years 

To qualify for the Glaucoma Program you must: 

• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident 
• Not belong to an HMO or have eye care benefits through the VA 
• Not had an eye exam in 12 months or more 
• Be at increased risk for glaucoma, determined by your age, race and family history (find out by filling out the screener) 

What isn't covered under both the Seniors Program and the Glaucoma Program?

Eyeglasses, prescription drugs, hospital services, and fees for other medical professionals are not included in these programs. 

How is it possible for EyeCare America to provide these services at no cost to me?  

EyeCare America has a network of 4,600 generous volunteer ophthalmologists who offer their time and care of patients. They are also able to provide no-cost services to you with the help of the Knights Templar Eye Foundation, who has offered 24 years of exceptional support. The Foundation's total contribution of nearly $5 million has enabled EyeCare America to provide sight-saving services to those in need across the United States. EyeCare America also receives annual support from both Alcon and Regeneron. 

Have more questions about EyeCare America's Seniors Program and the Glaucoma Program?

For additional information or to speak to an EyeCare America representative, you can: 

• Email: eyecareamerica@aao.org  
• Call: 877-887-6327 (Hours of operation: 8:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday, Pacific Time).