It’s stupidly simple. Find an NHS-registered optician (most high-street chains are). Book an appointment. When asked, say, “I’m 60 and I’d like my free NHS sight test.” That’s it. No forms, no secret handshake. They might ask for your NHS number, but if you don’t have it, just give your name and date of birth. They’re not the CIA.
One last joke: at 60, you might find you’ve developed presbyopia—the inability to focus on things up close. It’s nature’s cruel way of saying, “Here, have a pair of reading glasses and a reminder that you’re not 25 anymore.” But hey, at least you can now afford the fancy frames. Or you can just buy cheap ones and spend the savings on a celebratory cake.
In summary: yes, you get a free eye test at 60. Use it. Your vision is the only thing that sees your grandchildren messing up your house, the price tag you forgot to remove, and that embarrassing stain on your favourite shirt. Don’t let it go blurry. Now go book that appointment—and remember to close your eyes when the puffer sneezes.