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    In-Home Eye Tests in Australia: A Complete Guide for Older Adults & People with Mobility Issues

    Clinically reviewed by Dr Michael Roberts (AHPRA OPT0000000000) on 6 May 2026

    Eye See You Optometry
    06/05/2026
    8 min read

    In-Home Eye Tests in Australia: A Complete Guide

    For many older Australians, getting to an optometrist is the single biggest barrier to good eye care. Stairs, transport, fatigue, anxiety in unfamiliar settings, or simply the logistics of getting in and out of a car can make a routine eye test feel impossible.

    In-home eye tests solve that problem. A qualified, AHPRA-registered optometrist comes to your address with portable diagnostic equipment and conducts a full examination at your kitchen table or bedside.

    Who Qualifies for an In-Home Eye Test?

    In-home eye tests are appropriate for anyone who finds it difficult to travel to a clinic, including:

  1. Older adults living independently or with family
  2. People with limited mobility, chronic pain or fatigue
  3. Patients recovering from surgery (including cataract surgery)
  4. People with dementia or cognitive impairment who become anxious in unfamiliar environments
  5. Aged care residents whose facility doesn't have a regular visiting optometrist
  6. Carers who can't easily leave the person they care for
  7. You do not need a referral. You can book directly.

    What's Included in an In-Home Examination

    An in-home examination delivers the same clinical content as a high-street clinic visit:

  8. Visual acuity testing (distance and reading)
  9. Refraction (the prescription test)
  10. Eye pressure measurement (glaucoma screening)
  11. Retinal photography
  12. Anterior eye health check
  13. Discussion of any vision concerns
  14. Frame selection and dispensing of new glasses on the spot
  15. A written report is sent to your GP, and copies can be sent to family members or Power of Attorney representatives with your consent.

    Does Medicare Cover In-Home Eye Tests?

    Yes. Comprehensive eye examinations are bulk-billed through Medicare for eligible patients — every two years for most people, or annually for patients with diabetes, glaucoma, or other monitored conditions. There is no out-of-pocket cost for the examination.

    Glasses are a separate purchase, but private health funds with optical extras typically rebate part of the cost.

    What Happens on the Day

    1. The optometrist arrives at the agreed time, usually within a one-hour window.

    2. Equipment is set up in a comfortable, well-lit room (the kitchen or living room is usually ideal).

    3. The examination takes 45–60 minutes, with breaks as needed.

    4. Frame selection and dispensing happen at the same visit if new glasses are required.

    5. A written summary and recommendations are provided before the optometrist leaves.

    How to Arrange an In-Home Eye Test in QLD or NSW

    Eye See You Optometry provides in-home eye tests across Queensland and New South Wales — including Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Sydney, Newcastle, the Hunter, the Northern Rivers and most regional centres.

    Phone 0490 090 713 or use the booking form on our website. We'll confirm the address, the patient's needs, and a time that works.

    *Eye See You Optometry is an AHPRA-registered mobile optometry practice serving QLD and NSW. All in-home examinations are bulk-billed for eligible Medicare patients.*

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