Reading a good book is a wonderful way to feed our curiosity and fuel our intellect. But as we age, it may become more difficult to make out what’s written on the page. Many turn to reading glasses to help them see, but you may be surprised to learn there are a few key differences between prescription lenses and generic drugstore reading glasses.
The readers you’ll find in drugstores are designed to compensate for age-related presbyopia. This strikes most people around age 40. The lenses in your eyes become less flexible, making it harder to focus on close objects.
Readers from the drugstore will NOT help with astigmatism, myopia, glaucoma, etc. So if you’re having trouble seeing while driving, for example, you’ll want to set up an appointment with us to determine what the problem really is.
It’s very rare for someone to need the exact same correction for each eye. When we create your prescription glasses, we customize the lenses to each eye. Even if your problem is presbyopia, you may still find yourself struggling to focus with drugstore glasses and may benefit greatly from a more customized option.
The quality found in prescription glasses will be higher. The frames will be more durable and the lenses clearer. You also have the option of lenses that are more resistant to scratches or glare. And of course, you’ll have more fashion choices.
Are you curious how your eyesight fares? Check out the fun video below! It’s certainly not a diagnosis, but it’s still entertaining!
[iframe https://www.youtube.com/embed/tB5-JahAXfc?rel=0 620 349]
If you’re beginning to notice you’re having trouble reading your favorite books don’t hesitate to come see us! We care about your health and want you to be able to enjoy every page. Generic reading glasses have their place, but it’s best to consult with an optometrist before you decide on any vision correction treatment. We can help you determine the best eye care solution for you.
Top image by Flickr user Rui Fernandes used under Creative Commons Attribution-Sharealike 4.0 license. Image cropped and modified from original.
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.