Eyeglass prescriptions

Clear, comfortable vision starts with the right prescription

At Foley Vision Center in Amesbury, MA,, we make sure your eyeglass prescription is accurate, up to date and tailored to your needs — whether you’re updating your glasses or getting your first pair.

Why it matters

Why regular prescription updates matter

Your eyes change over time — even if you already wear glasses. A prescription that worked last year may no longer give you sharp vision today.

Regular exams also protect your overall eye health. During your visit we check for early signs of glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic eye disease — conditions that often show no symptoms at first.

Most adults should schedule an annual eye exam. Children, older adults and those with certain health conditions may need more frequent visits.

Children may show different signs — sitting too close to the television, holding books near their face, or struggling with schoolwork.

Reading the numbers

How your prescription is measured

A prescription may look like a page of numbers, but each detail holds meaning. Each eye is tested separately and written individually, then lenses are crafted to those exact measurements so both eyes work together comfortably.

Nearsighted (myopia)

Trouble seeing far away.

Farsighted (hyperopia)

Trouble seeing up close.

Astigmatic

Blurred vision from an uneven cornea.

Presbyopic

Needing help with both near and distance vision.

Advanced technology

Accurate results, healthier eyes

These tests do more than measure vision — they help detect health problems early, often before symptoms appear.

Vision clarity tests

Visual acuity test

Checking the sharpness of vision with an eye chart.

Refraction test

Using different lenses to find your exact prescription.

Retinoscopy

Shining a light into the eye to estimate the required correction.

Eye health tests

Slit lamp exam

Checking for cataracts and other eye conditions.

Visual field test

Looking for blind spots in your peripheral vision.

Retinal photo screening

Taking pictures of the back of your eye.

Tonometry

Measuring eye pressure to screen for glaucoma.

Ophthalmoscopy

Examining the retina and optic nerve.

Lens options

Single vision, bifocal or progressive

The lenses you need depend on how your eyes focus at different distances — and on your age, lifestyle and daily activities.

Single vision

One strength throughout the lens — ideal for either distance, like a classroom whiteboard, or near work such as reading.

Bifocal

Two distinct strengths in one lens, separated by a visible line: distance on top, near vision below.

Progressive

Distance and near vision without a visible line. Strength changes gradually, so driving, computer work and reading all stay comfortable.

A student may only need single vision lenses, while an adult switching between driving and computer work often benefits from progressives.

Your visit

What to expect during your exam

The process is straightforward and comfortable. Knowing the steps ahead of time helps you feel at ease.

Vision check

Read letters from an eye chart to test sharpness and clarity.

Refraction test

Look through a series of lenses to find your exact prescription.

Eye health evaluation

The doctor examines the internal structures of your eye for signs of disease.

Pressure test

A quick tonometry check of eye pressure that helps screen for glaucoma.

Consultation

We review your results together and answer every question you have.

Your optometrist

Meet Dr. Matthew D. Foley, O.D.

Dr. Foley, owner and lead optometrist, has cared for patients in Massachusetts and New Hampshire for over 20 years. A graduate of the New England College of Optometry, he specializes in advanced dry eye treatments and comprehensive family eye care.

Outside the clinic, Dr. Foley enjoys the outdoors at Lake Winnipesaukee, Maudslay State Park, Plum Island and Hampton Beach, and is passionate about helping children and rescuing animals.

Payment & insurance

We accept most major plans

Our staff will review your benefits and answer any questions. Call us to confirm your coverage.

Come say hello

Our team is ready to welcome you

Request an appointment online or give us a call — we’ll confirm your insurance coverage before your visit.

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

9:00am – 6:00pm

Wednesday

9:00am – 6:00pm

Thursday

9:00am – 6:00pm

Friday

9:00am – 6:00pm

Saturday-Sunday

Closed