Can I get eyes tested in UK?

I LIVE permanently in France and have a carte vitale; am I still entitled to have my eyes tested for free in the UK as I am an OAP? Also, can I buy glasses there with my French address? J.R

THE Department of Health guidelines say you are entitled to a free NHS-funded sight test if you are aged 60 or over or receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.

It does not include EU residents and the DoH says that NHS-funded tests are for UK residents.

However, the decision is up to the optician: you can ask for a free test and many offer them readily.

This will be outside NHS funding and they will be looking to recoup the cost in the purchase of glasses. It is very unlikely that you will get the prescription to buy glasses elsewhere.

Glasses are not free for OAPs in the UK, although there are optical vouchers for those getting Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.

Your French address makes no difference if you want to buy glasses, unless you encounter a problem.