Presbyopia
Presbyopia, or blurred near vision, is a natural change in sight that happens as we get older. The symptoms are very similar to long-sigthedness (hyperopia). However, presbyopia sets in as we get older and is caused by a hardening of the crystalline lens, and it makes it difficult for people to see things up close.
Hyperopia, on the other hand, means that the light rays are focused behind the retina so that people have difficulty seeing things further away. This can happen at any age.
Presbyopia, affects everyone sooner or later. Don’t panic – you just need an eye test to determine which eyewear is right for you.
Bifocals
If you need one prescription for distance vision and another for close work, then bifocals could be the answer. This means that the lens in your glasses is divided into two different strengths so that you won’t have to worry about carrying two pairs of glasses with you.
Varifocals
Varifocals give you all the benefits of different prescriptions in the same lens, but without the telltale line that bifocals can have. The lenses in varifocals gradually change from your distance prescription to your close-up one, so they look just like ordinary glasses. You can use them for work, driving and when you go out.
It may take you a little time to get used to varifocals so you should not use them for driving in the first few days – until you are used to them.
Reading glasses
When you need a little help to focus on the newspaper or your latest book, reading glasses offer a simple solution. With a prescription that helps keep the words pin-sharp, you can carry on enjoying the crossword or your favourite author.
Contact lenses
When wearing glasses isn’t convenient, try contact lenses. For sports or active recreation, or for when you want to change your outfit, comfortable contact lenses give you more options. You can even have them with varifocal prescriptions.
Which eyewear is right for you?
If you need eyewear but don’t know what type will be best for you, your optician will recommend various options.