After age 40, some people find it difficult to read small print, especially up close. This is the first sign of presbyopia. If this is your case, you likely need glasses for presbyopia to see clearly at all distances. But how do you choose glasses for presbyopia? It depends on several factors, including your prescription, lifestyle and personal preferences. That's what we're going to explore in more detail.
Know your prescription
The first step is to get to know your vision prescription. This contains information on the correction required for each eye, guaranteeing visual comfort. If you obtained your prescription over a year ago, we recommend you consult an optometrist. After an eye exam, your optometrist will determine the degree of your presbyopia and give you the appropriate prescription.
Learn about the different types of lenses for presbyopia
There are several types of lenses for presbyopia. Standard options include progressive, bifocal and trifocal lenses. Progressive lenses are often the most popular, offering a smooth transition between different correction zones without visible lines.
Bifocal and trifocal lenses include 2 and 3 lens powers in the same lens. These different zones are clearly demarcated. As a result, there is no smooth transition as with progressive lenses.
However, classic bifocal and trifocal lenses do have their advantages. They can offer wider lens zones for reading and computer work than most progressive lenses.
Moreover, many bifocal and trifocal lenses are designed for specific uses, such as computer work and other tasks requiring close-up vision. Depending on requirements, the part of the lens that helps with near vision can take on different shapes, such as a half-moon or a round or rectangular shape, on bifocal and trifocal lenses.
Your optometrist will be able to advise you and answer any questions you may have about these different types of lenses during your appointment.
Selecting the right frame for presbyopia lenses
For progressive lenses, it's best to choose glasses with high frames. You can choose between medium and slightly larger frames. Aviator or cat-eye shapes fall into these categories. And depending on your style, you can also opt for oversized frames, which are sure to enhance your look!
Just remember that the height of your frame is important. By providing the space needed to accommodate the lenses, you'll see better at different distances without being hindered by the frame.
Don't hesitate to ask our IRIS opticians for advice in-store. They will also be able to advise you on the different types of coatings and treatments available for your lenses. For example, anti-reflective coatings are ideal for reducing annoying reflections, while anti-scratch coatings extend the life of your glasses.
Take your lifestyle into account
If you need sunglasses and have presbyopia, you can opt for sunglasses with corrective lenses adapted to your prescription. With the proper vision correction, your sunglasses will enable you to drive and enjoy outdoor activities while preserving visual comfort.
And if you're a regular sports fan, multifocal contact lenses can be an excellent alternative to prescription glasses. These lenses work in the same way as progressive lenses. They offer correction for near, distance and intermediate vision. And they have the advantage of providing greater freedom of movement, for skiing, for example.
As you can see, choosing glasses for presbyopia is a decision that considers many factors. Don't hesitate to take the time to talk to eye care professionals to find the glasses best suited to your vision and daily activities.
