Step-by-step playbook for care home managers

Step 1 — Schedule rounds

Schedule a clinical round annually as standard, with sooner reviews where staff observe changes in vision or behaviour.

Step 2 — Discovery call

We discuss resident numbers, current eye care arrangements, scheduling and any clinical priorities.

Step 3 — Round planning

We agree dates, a key contact in the home, and a quiet room for clinics. Pick a quiet, well-lit room and pair the visiting optometrist with a key carer who knows each resident.

Step 4 — NHS eligibility

We pre-confirm eligibility for each resident in advance to keep the day on schedule. NHS funding covers the sight test for eligible residents; we handle the paperwork on your behalf.

Step 5 — Round day

Our optometrist arrives, sets up, and works through the list. Care staff support residents living with dementia or with communication needs.

Set up a quiet, well-lit room. Care staff who know the resident best should be available to assist, particularly for residents living with dementia.

Step 6 — Glasses and follow-up

Frames are fitted on-site at a follow-up visit. Repairs and reglazing handled through routine visits. Glasses can be supplied on-site at the time of fitting and replaced or repaired through follow-up visits. Keep a simple log of glasses repairs and replacements — most are quick and inexpensive when caught early.

For NHS funding, booking residents, and what your home needs on the day, see our care home eye tests and optician visits service page.