Everyone needs some help to see things clearly as the years go by. To be more precise, a better understanding of what is happening. The print on a menu may be too small, and you can’t see it no matter what you do. You may realize that you can see more clearly on the computer screen by increasing the font size. Do you sound familiar? You are not alone, but I know that it is.
I talked to two eye doctors about whether you need reading glasses. (Most people know them as “readers”). They also gave me some suggestions on how to choose the right pair.
Readers are a necessity.
According to Dr. Cari Cannon of Cannon Eyecare, Boston, it’s normal to require readers at one point in your life. She says that as we age in our 40s and 50s, our eyes relax, and we have more trouble focusing from near to far and back again. (Full disclosure: Dr. Cannon is my optometrist.
Near vision correction could also be beneficial for people who have suffered from eye strain or fatigue due to prolonged device use, which, let’s face the truth, is many of us this day. Near vision correction can help blur vision, mainly when used with close-up objects.
Getting a prescription for your readers can be helpful, but it isn’t always necessary.
Consider readers if you cannot see the small print in low light or keep books and other reading materials closer to your eyes.
Are you a reader?
Cannon and Dr. Natasha Herz (a spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology) both agree that readers can be picked up at a pharmacy or online if they are just for information. Both doctors emphasize the importance of a baseline exam to ensure your eyes are healthy.
Herz says that you can still go to the pharmacy to get the lowest prescription glasses if you don’t have a prescription. It is a good idea to have a baseline medical exam in your 40s if you have never been to the doctor or have not needed to.
How can I determine the strength of my reading glasses?
Cannon says that many people will choose the lowest prescription number, even though it is sometimes inadequate for long-term use. You will need to have an eye exam to determine the exact prescription. Without an eye exam, it is impossible to determine how much power your eyes need. The emphasis will be measured and calibrated according to your working distance.
Is it legal to order readers online?
Cannon states that ordering online is possible once you have determined the power required for your goal task. I recommend at least one pair of glasses for work, with several teams for quick jobs.
My annual exam was a time when I felt tired, and my eyes were irritated. She suggested the lowest prescription, +1.00, for me and told me it was okay to order from anywhere I wanted. Herz also suggested this for simple remedies. Since then, I have ordered glasses online from many different retailers. Warby Parker is my favorite because you can choose from five frames and only have to pay for the one you buy.
Do readers make your vision worse?
Both doctors refute the notion that reading makes your vision worse. Cannon says, “The truth is that our eyes will change regardless of what we do.” He suggests that we use glasses [glasses] to see clearly. “Our near vision continues changing into our 60s, regardless of whether we wear glasses.”
However, you should avoid wearing readers all day. Readers are designed to focus at a single distance and may only be sufficient for some of your activities. You might prefer the way you see with reading glasses to those without. This is an excellent time to have a thorough exam to determine if you require glasses for everyday wear.
Blue light-blocking readers:
Blue light-blocking glasses are claimed to reduce fatigue and eyestrain. They often use yellow-tinted lenses to block out artificial light. While these glasses are possible, Cannon prefers anti-reflective lenses to be yellow. Cannon says that anti-reflective coatings reduce glare from overhead lights and off devices. This helps to reduce eye strain and improve vision. Yellow increases contrast but can cause color distortion.
Herz suggests that you can adjust the lighting of your computer to reduce eye strain. Cannon’s 20-20-20 rule is the best way to go. Cannon presents, looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds each 20 minutes. This will make our eyes feel more relaxed by helping to “unstick” them from pages and close-up screens.
Do I have to feel awkward about having readers?
Reading is a normal part of life. It’s something that we need to address as we age. Consult your doctor if you are concerned about your vision. You can find fun glasses that fit your lifestyle, personality, and even clothes once you have a precise prescription. You can easily swap out your reader daily because some readers are affordable.
