“My eyes just feel tired these days.” It's something many of us hear from our parents and grandparents, and it's often put down to age.
Some changes in the eyes are a natural part of getting older, but that doesn't mean they need to be uncomfortable. Dry eye is one of the most common reasons behind that tired, gritty feeling after 60, and it's very manageable once it's properly understood.
This guide is for seniors and the families who care for them. It covers why dry eye becomes more common with age, what to look out for, and how the Elderly Health Care Voucher can be used for eye care at Réspa.
In this article
Why dry eye is more common with age
Research shows dry eye becomes more common as we get older. A few gentle changes tend to happen together:
Changes in the oil glands
The meibomian glands along the eyelids tend to produce less, and thicker, oil over time, so tears evaporate faster.
Fewer tears
Tear production can gradually decrease, and hormonal changes, especially after menopause, can play a part.
Everyday medications
Some common medicines, such as certain blood pressure tablets, antihistamines and antidepressants, can reduce tears.
Eyelid changes
Looser eyelids or incomplete blinking can leave part of the eye surface uncovered and drying out.
Please don't stop or change any medication because of dry eye. If you think a medicine may be affecting your eyes, speak with the doctor who prescribed it.
Eye surgery, such as cataract surgery, can also make eyes feel drier for a while afterwards. For a fuller picture of dry eye, see our complete guide to dry eye.
Signs to look out for
Older family members may not always describe it as “dry”. Gently look out for:
- Saying their eyes feel tired, heavy, gritty or sore
- Rubbing their eyes often, especially in the evening
- Watery eyes, particularly outdoors or in the wind
- Red or crusty eyelid edges in the morning
- Reading or watching TV for shorter periods than before
- Using eye drops very often, but still feeling uncomfortable
“But my mum's eyes are always watery”
Watery eyes are surprisingly often a sign of dry eye. When the eye surface is irritated, it produces extra reflex tears that don't protect it well. Watery eyes can also have other causes, such as a blocked tear duct, so a proper assessment is the best way to find out.
Why regular eye checks matter after 65
Dry eye is common, but it's not the only change that can happen with age. Conditions such as cataract, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration often develop gradually, and some have few early symptoms.
A regular eye examination with an optometrist can help pick up these changes early. If anything needs further attention, we'll arrange a referral to an ophthalmologist, so your family member gets the right care at the right time.
Using the Elderly Health Care Voucher
Réspa is enrolled in the Government's Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme, so eligible seniors can use their vouchers towards optometry services with us, such as eye examinations and dry eye assessments. Here are the key points:
| Who can use it | Hong Kong residents aged 65 or above with a valid Hong Kong Identity Card or Certificate of Exemption. Vouchers are available from 1 January of the year you turn 65. |
| How much | HK$2,000 each year, added on 1 January. Unused amounts carry forward, up to a total of HK$8,000. |
| Limit for optometry | Up to HK$2,000 every two years can be used on optometry services. Unused optometry quota doesn't carry over to the next two-year cycle. |
| How to use it | No need to register in advance. Bring your original valid HKID (a senior citizen card or photocopy isn't accepted). Vouchers are claimed after each service is received in person. |
| What it doesn't cover | Buying products on their own, such as eye drops or glasses without a service, and paying in advance for services not yet received. |
| Checking your balance | Call the voucher balance hotline on 2838 0511, use the eHealth App, or check online at the Health Care Voucher website. |
Information based on the Department of Health's Health Care Voucher FAQs, as of September 2026. Scheme details may change, so our team is always happy to check with you on the day.
What a visit looks like
-
1Book an appointment
Online, or a family member can book on your behalf. -
2Your eye check
We take time to listen, then look at your tear film, eyelids and overall eye health at a calm, unhurried pace. -
3Clear explanation
We explain what we found in simple words, and suggest a care plan that fits your daily routine. -
4Using your voucher
Show your original HKID after the service, and we'll handle the voucher claim with you. You'll receive a notice showing the amount used and your remaining balance.
Tips for families
If you're helping a parent or grandparent with their eye care, a little preparation makes the visit smoother:
- Bring the original HKID: it's needed to use the voucher
- Bring a list of medications: or simply take a photo of the boxes
- Bring any eye drops and glasses they currently use
- Come along if you can: a familiar face helps, and you'll hear the advice first-hand
- Keep daily care simple: a warm compress routine is easier to keep up when it's part of an existing habit, like after morning tea
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the voucher just to buy eye drops?
No. Vouchers are for healthcare services, and can't be used to buy products on their own, such as eye drops, medications or glasses.
Can I use my spouse's vouchers?
If both of you are eligible, you can link your voucher accounts and use your spouse's balance once your own is used up. The HK$2,000 optometry quota every two years stays separate for each person and can't be shared.
Is there an extra charge for using vouchers?
No. Under the scheme, you shouldn't be charged any handling fee or a higher price for using vouchers.
Can my son or daughter book the appointment for me?
Of course. Family members are welcome to book and to come along. Just remember that the senior needs to attend in person with their original HKID to use the voucher.
Will anyone ask for my bank details to use the voucher?
No. The Department of Health and healthcare providers will not ask for bank details or ask you to click a link to use your vouchers. Please stay alert to scams.
Caring for the eyes of the people you love
Whether it's for yourself or a parent, a gentle, thorough eye check is a good place to start. We'll take our time, explain everything clearly, and help you make the most of your voucher 🤍
Book an eye checkRéspa — Optometry & Dry Eye Wellness Centre
Room 1303, Hang Shing Building, 363–373 Nathan Road, Yau Ma Tei
11:00 AM – 7:00 PM · Closed Wednesday and Friday
About the author
Written by a registered optometrist at Réspa. Réspa was founded by three optometrists and focuses on comprehensive dry eye assessment and care, bringing evidence-based optometry together with a calm, wellness-focused experience.
References
- Department of Health, HKSAR. Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme: FAQs for Voucher Recipients. September 2026.
- Stapleton F, et al. TFOS DEWS II Epidemiology Report. The Ocular Surface, 2017.
- Craig JP, et al. TFOS DEWS II Definition and Classification Report. The Ocular Surface, 2017.
This article is for general health information only and does not replace a professional eye examination. If you have any eye discomfort, please consult a registered optometrist or ophthalmologist.
