Selecting your first pair of reader glasses
It eventually happens. You adjust the distance of your phone to scroll social media. You squint to see your computer screen. It becomes challenging to read a book. These are telltale signs that you might be ready for a pair of reader glasses.
The American Optometric Association (AOA) says that many adults begin to lose their ability to focus in their early to mid-40s. This common change of near vision is called presbyopia.
Presbyopia happens when the “lens inside the eye becomes less flexible,” according to the AOA. Also known as “old eye,” there are different ways to make your sight good as new, including glasses and contacts or, if desired, surgery.
Which glasses are for you?
If you’ve never had glasses, buying your first pair can be intimidating. Here are some tips from the American Academy of Ophthalmology to help regain your focus:
You can purchase ready-made reading glasses at a drugstore or online. They are cost-effective but are only made for improving reading. Ready-made glasses assist near vision by “bending light before it enters your eye.”
The National Library of Medicine notes that readers are a good choice if you don’t need any distance correction or don’t have astigmatism (when the eyes are curved, resulting in blurry vision).
Prescription glasses can be specially made and purchased from your eye doctor. Although a pricier option, you can simultaneously address additional eye concerns, such as astigmatism or nearsightedness, with one lens.
Reader strengths
If purchasing ready-made readers at a drug or department store, select the best strength to meet your needs. Strengths are calculated in diopters. According to the National Library of Medicine, reading glass powers are generally purchased between +1 and +3, although lower and higher strengths are available. It’s best to consult with your eye doctor for recommendations, but these are the general power suggestions based on age:
+1 = Ages 35 to 45
+1.50 = Ages 45 to 50
+2.00 = Ages 50 to 55
+2.50 or higher = Ages 55+
Although presbyopia cannot be prevented, the AOA says the good news is that these “old eye” vision changes generally taper off around the age of 60. Whether you need a pair of readers or prescription lenses, take advantage of the corrective options available to leave the eye strain behind and ace the eye chart.
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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
