What to Know About Bifocal Glasses

Bifocal glasses are a good solution for many people who are already wearing glasses and develop presbyopia.

Person with bifocal glasses in front of a laptop

Around the age of 40, it is common to experience problems seeing things that are close to you, such as reading menus in restaurants. It is a condition known as presbyopia and is when people have blurred near vision when looking at objects that are nearest to them.

Some who currently don't wear glasses can use prescription eyeglasses to help correct the issue. But, if you already wear eyeglasses, you will most likely need multifocal lenses so that you can see clearly at all times without having to switch out glasses for different situations.

The most common solution prescribed is bifocals, which have two separate areas of the lens to assist with seeing properly.

Types of Bifocal Lenses

No-Line Progressive Lenses

These are popular because they look just like regular eyeglasses. These generally change in power from the top to the bottom of the lens. Not only are they a smoother transition, and more a conspicuous lens, but they also have three zones of vision (near, far and middle) rather than two.

Lined Bifocals

These are distinguished by the slight line on the lens. In most cases, the bottom part of the lens reduces the effort necessary to focus when reading or looking at things closely, while the top part serves to help see in the distance.

There are also options, like reading glasses and computer glasses, which may be helpful depending on your specific circumstances.

Usually it is adults who need bifocals, but in some cases children and young adults may be prescribed them if they have trouble focusing or experience eye strain when reading.

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Wearing Bifocals

Bifocals when fitted properly should not cause you to see a reflection in the lens. If they do, make sure to check back with your eye doctor. Keep in mind that anti-reflective coatings are available with bifocal lenses as well.

There are some types of occupational bifocals and trifocals available, for specific jobs and tasks. Make sure to tell your eye doctor if you have special needs because of work or an activity you like to do.

Some examples include car mechanics, people working in TV production and golfers. If you prefer wearing contact lenses, bifocal contact lenses are also available.

If you are experiencing problems with your vision, come in for an eye exam at your local America's Best location and find out if bifocals are a right choice for you.