The Vision Council (TVC) has released its latest research report, Consumer inSights Canada Q3 and Q4 2024, offering an overview of Canadian consumers’ habits and opinions on vision correction, eye exams, eyewear purchases, and vision insurance. The findings, part of TVC’s inSights Research Program, highlight key trends in vision care across Canada.

According to the report, 52% of Canadians had an eye exam in the past year, marking an increase from the first half of 2024. However, this figure remains lower than the U.S. rate, which stands at approximately 62%. The study also found that Canadian consumers are replacing their eyewear less frequently, with a median replacement cycle of 24 months—twice the U.S. average. Additionally, 38% of respondents reported spending $99 or less out-of-pocket on glasses, lenses, or frames.

“Our latest Consumer inSights Canada report explores how Canadian consumers approach optical products and services and sheds light into what matters most for them when it comes to their eye health,” says Alysse Henkel, TVC’s vice president of research and inSights. “Findings from this latest report highlight some of the differences between U.S. and Canadian consumers and can help members of industry better serve Canadian consumers.”

Here are some key findings from the report:

• Seventy-six percent of respondents use some form of vision correction, including glasses, prescription sunglasses, reading glasses, or contact lenses.
• Within the last year, 48% of prescription glasses users made a purchase.
• In more than two years, 28% of respondents have not had an eye exam.
• Of those who use reading glasses, 65% bought a new pair in the past year.
• More than half (58%) of respondents wear plano (nonprescription) sunglasses.

The full report is available here as a complimentary download for members and for nonmembers to purchase.