What Are Bifocal Lenses?
If you are struggling to see things far away or up close, you may be farsighted or nearsighted. Nearsightedness is caused by the visual image being focused in the front of the retina instead of directly on it. This causes objects in the distance to look blurred. Farsightedness is when the visual image is focused behind the retina. This causes near objects to look blurry. Both kinds of vision can be aided with the proper prescribed glasses. However, it is possible to be both farsighted and nearsighted. To correct this kind of vision, you need bifocal lenses. At Today’s Vision Creekside, our teams at our Tomball location provide the vision testing you need to find what lenses are right for you.
Benefits of Bifocal Lenses
Bifocals are a single set of lenses with two prescriptions in them. The top part of the bifocal corrects nearsighted impairments while the bottom part of the lens helps with farsighted issues. If you are prescribed bifocal lenses, understand that it can take a little time getting used to them. Since the bottom part of the lens is to help near vision, daily tasks like walking down stairs can be difficult. With a little practice, you’ll get used to looking through the top portion of the lens for certain tasks when needed.
Other Types of Bifocals
Progressive lenses and bifocals work the same by aiding farsightedness and nearsightedness at the same time. The difference is that while bifocals are two separate prescriptions, progressive lenses smoothly transition the two prescriptions with an intermediate area between them. There is no visible division between far and near portions of the lens, so you will need to select a frame that has enough space to accommodate the transition. Some people find progressive lenses to be more difficult to adjust to than traditional bifocals. Our team in our optical department can help you figure out if progressive lenses are right for you.
Another option is bifocal contact lenses. It’s the same as the glasses, but the two prescriptions are on the top and bottom of the contact. The problem with bifocal contact lenses is that they have to be precise in size, so they won’t further impair your vision. It may take several visits with our team to find the appropriate fit, but we are here to help every step of the way.
Vision as You Age
Most people experience changes in their vision throughout their life. In older adults, it is possible to develop Presbyopia, which is a physiological insufficiency in the eye that progressively worsens the ability to focus on close objects clearly. Bifocals can help with presbyopia, but it’s important to get an annual eye exam to make sure your vision doesn’t worsen.
See How We Can Help
If you are in need of bifocals, our team at Today’s Vision is ready to find the prescription and fit that is best for you. Our optometry office proudly serves The Woodlands, Tomball, and Spring, TX communities. When you are looking for an optometrist near me, we’re here to help! We care for your eyes and ca help you find the bifocals you need for correct vision. Call us at (346) 808-7342 to see how we can help!