It’s not a stereotype – most older people do need prescription eyeglasses. Our vision changes as we age because the eye’s lens and its muscles used for focusing become less flexible. The condition is called presbyopia.
People age 40 and older often notice that print begins to blur when they’re reading. That’s a clear sign of presbyopia, even if a person hasn’t worn glasses before. If you have worn eyeglasses before age 40, signs of presbyopia also mean that single-vision lenses won’t work for you anymore.
There are several kinds of single-vision and multi-focal prescription eyeglasses that can correct presbyopia. These include:
* Bifocals. Their invention is attributed to America’s first scientist, Benjamin Franklin. Unfortunately, in the three centuries, since ol’ Benjy invented them, traditional bifocals haven’t changed much. They still are made with only near and far vision, with no intermediate zone. The top half of bifocals is used for distance vision and the bottom half for reading. A noticeable line separates the two lens regions.
* Trifocals. This kind of lens attempts to include all three seeing distances: near, middle and far. Trifocals are a bit more adaptable than bifocals and are usually custom made for the wearer’s occupation or lifestyle.
* Progressive lenses. Here’s the biggest improvement over either bifocals or trifocals. Progressives allow wearers of prescription eyeglasses to focus at nearly any distance. There’s no line in the lens, so eyesight transition is smoother than with the other types of lenses for presbyopia.
* Reading glasses. Essentially, reading glasses are single-vision magnifiers. Their lenses will enlarge type so that it can be seen without blurring. Reading glasses can be purchased in pharmacies or discount stores without a prescription, or an optician can prescribe reading glasses.
In addition to needing vision correction for reading, people with presbyopia who are fond of sports and recreational activities may find that they need specialized prescription eyeglasses. After all, a devoted softball player wouldn’t want that horsehide to get indistinct when it comes across the plate. And every golfer needs to be able to see well to tee up.
Originally developed for professional athletes, sports sunglasses and performance prescription eyeglasses can ensure good vision for any outdoor activity. There are even designs for diving masks, swim goggles, ski goggles and shooting glasses for hunters.
Even though your need for prescription eyeglasses means you’re getting older, you don’t have to sacrifice a stylish appearance. Besides choosing the right lenses for your needs, your appearance and your lifestyle are the best guides to choosing the right prescription eyeglasses.
It’s important to decide on your lenses before you choose frames because some kinds of lenses (such as the progressives mention earlier) don’t work with certain sizes of frames. Once you’ve selected your lenses, consider the shape of your face and your skin and hair color to choose the frames that are right for you. Don’t be afraid to consider getting a wardrobe of prescription eyeglasses as well. Often optical stores or boutiques will have “two-for-one” deals so you can get a stylish but conservative frame for work and indulge your wild side in a pair of prescription eyeglasses for casual times.
Whatever you choose, make sure you like the look and fit of your prescription eyeglasses. Ask your optician or optical store in advance about their return, exchange or refund policies before you buy.