An accommodation test measures how well your eyes focus on near objects and then relax to look far away.
What happens in an accommodation test
The examiner shows you targets at different distances or moves a target closer and further away. Your focusing ability and speed of response are assessed.
- The test may involve reading small print at various distances
- Sometimes lenses are used to make the eyes work harder or relax
- Children and young adults are commonly tested if reading seems difficult
- The procedure is comfortable and does not harm the eyes
Why accommodation matters
Reduced focusing ability can cause blur, tired eyes, and headaches, especially with close work. Understanding how your accommodation functions helps the clinician plan the best correction.
- Identifies focusing weakness, spasm, or imbalance between the eyes
- Can guide prescriptions for reading glasses or bifocals
- Supports decisions about suitability for vision correction procedures
- Helpful in diagnosing reading difficulties in children
