People who need to switch to multifocal lenses as they age find that it’s not as easy as simply wearing new eyewear. If you’re planning on getting multifocal lenses or have just started using them, here’s a quick guide on how to adjust to multifocal lenses.
The Different Types of Multifocal Lenses
Most people are familiar with bifocal lenses, which have been around since the 1700s and was said to have been invented by Benjamin Franklin. Bifocal lenses are made of two pieces that provide distance vision and near-vision correction. Trifocals were invented a century later and are made of three pieces that provide correction for distance vision, intermediate (or arm’s length) vision and near-vision. Bifocals and trifocals are made from separate pieces of glass and have distinct visible lines on the lenses.
Progressive lenses are a great alternative for people who find bifocal or trifocal lenses uncomfortable or visually unappealing. They feature a gradual change in power within a single lens and are generally thinner and lighter than other types of multifocals. Multifocal contact lenses are manufactured using the same process as progressive lenses.
Tips for First-Time Multifocal Users
Wearing multifocal eyeglasses or contacts for the first time will require some time to adjust and adapt to it. The following tips can make the adjustment period easier:
- Wear your multifocals at all times for the first few days. Wearing your multifocals as often as you can will help train your eyes to move between the different powers of the lenses easily. Most people are able to adjust to their multifocals in a week or two.
- Don’t look down while walking. People tend to watch their feet while walking when wearing their new eyewear. The slight change in depth perception may make you miscalculate your steps, which can lead to accidents.
- Make sure your new glasses are comfortable. The position of the lenses relative to your eyes are crucial to how you will use your new glasses daily, so make sure that you’re not choosing frames solely because they’re fashionable or because they cost less. Choose frames that feel comfortable and fit your face properly instead.
Guilford Eye Center is one of the leading providers of eye care services to clients in High Point, NC, and the surrounding communities. Give us a call at (336) 292-4516. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
