What is a home visit eye test?
A home visit eye test — also known as a domiciliary eye test — is a full sight test carried out in your own home by a qualified optometrist or ophthalmic medical practitioner. This service is available on the NHS for people who cannot get to an optician's practice unaccompanied due to a physical or mental illness or disability. The clinical standard of the test is the same as you would receive in a high-street practice — portable equipment allows the optometrist to carry out all the necessary checks.
You are eligible for a free NHS home visit if leaving your home to attend an optician is not possible without help. This includes many elderly or housebound patients, people in care homes or nursing homes, those with severe mobility issues, and individuals with conditions such as advanced dementia or agoraphobia. The optometrist will bring all the equipment needed, including portable letter charts, a trial lens set, a slit lamp, and often a portable fundus camera.
To arrange a home visit, you can contact a domiciliary optical practice directly, ask your GP surgery for a recommendation, or call NHS 111 for guidance. Many local opticians also offer this service — it is worth asking when you call to book. The optometrist can dispense glasses during the visit or arrange for them to be delivered, making the entire process as convenient as possible for those who cannot easily leave their home.
Who needs a home visit eye test?
- People who cannot leave their home unaccompanied due to physical or mental health conditions
- Elderly or housebound individuals
- Residents of care homes or nursing homes
- People with severe mobility difficulties
- Anyone whose condition makes travelling to an optician impractical or unsafe
- Carers can request a home visit on behalf of the person they look after
What to expect during a home visit eye test
- 1You or your carer contacts a domiciliary optical practice to arrange a convenient appointment time
- 2A qualified optometrist visits your home with portable examination equipment
- 3The same clinical tests as a standard eye test are performed, including vision, prescription, and eye health checks
- 4If new glasses are needed, the optometrist can help you choose frames and arrange delivery
- 5You may receive an NHS optical voucher towards the cost of your glasses
- 6The optometrist will advise when your next test is due
How much does it cost?
Free on the NHS for eligible patients. Private home visits typically £40–£80
How often should you have this test?
Every 2 years, or annually if clinically recommended