Which age group typically exhibits natural farsightedness that prompts visual screening?

Preschool children are typically the age group that exhibits natural farsightedness, also known as hyperopia, making visual screening important during this developmental stage. At this age, children's visual systems are still maturing, and farsightedness can be a common condition where distant objects may be seen more clearly than nearby objects.

Visual screening in preschool children helps identify those who might need further evaluation by an eye care professional, as undetected vision issues can impact their learning and development. This proactive approach is essential because as children's visual demands increase—particularly when they start reading and engaging with closer tasks—it becomes crucial to ensure their vision is functioning optimally.

While infants may also have some degree of hyperopia, the concerns regarding their eyesight typically emerge later, as their vision is still developing. Kindergarten children are more advanced in terms of visual acuity, and teenagers usually do not exhibit these common natural conditions. Thus, preschool is the most critical time for screening for farsightedness.