Reading Glasses After 40: When to Buy & Why Test First (Video)

Transcript

Did you know a quick eye test can save you money on readers?

Did you know a quick eye test can save you money on readers?

Reading Glasses After 40

Ever wonder if those cheap over-the-counter readers really work? Stay tuned for the one tip you can act on right now.

Why vision blurs

Your eye’s lens is like a soft rubber ball that a ring of muscle squeezes to focus up close. In your 40s it hardens, so the muscle can’t change shape enough for a phone or newspaper.

When it begins

Most people notice the change somewhere in the early to mid-40s.

Readymade readers work if

Off-the-shelf readers have two identical lenses. They’re fine when both eyes need the same strength, you have little astigmatism, and you see fine at distance without glasses.

Choosing the right pair

First, get a prescription from a full eye exam. Then hold a phone at the distance you normally read, about 35 to 40 centimeters, and try the lenses. If both are sharp, the lower power usually feels more comfortable for longer.

Quote

Readers fix the print, but only a proper eye test reveals if glaucoma, cataract or diabetic eye damage is hiding behind the blur. Your eye doctor can spot early signs that you might not feel at all.

Typical power range

Most over-the-counter readers run from +1.00 up to about +3.00 diopters, giving you enough magnification for everyday reading without a prescription, and they’re cheap enough to keep a spare in each room.

The one tip

Before you buy any readers, schedule a comprehensive eye exam, it's the only way to catch silent problems and ensure you get the right power. A proper exam also checks for silent conditions like glaucoma that could threaten your sight.

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Read the full guide

Read the complete guide on thecareonline.com. This is general information, not medical advice.