As we age, our eyes undergo various changes. One common condition is presbyopia: age-related loss of near vision. In fact, the term “presbyopia” comes from Greek meaning “old eye.” This condition is common among people over the age of 40.
Presbyopia occurs when your eye’s lens becomes less flexible. This makes it harder to focus on objects that are close up, such as when reading or working on a computer or performing other near tasks.
Glasses or not?
One option to correct presbyopia is to wear reading glasses. But if you’re someone who doesn’t like wearing glasses, multifocal contact lenses may be an option. Multifocal contact lenses give you more than one prescription all on a single lens.
Multifocal contact lenses are designed to provide both distance and near vision correction. They work in a similar way as bifocal glasses, with different prescription zones on the lens that allow you to see clearly at different distances.
They also offer a more natural-looking vision correction than bifocal or progressive glasses. Because the prescription zones are integrated into the lens, there is no visible line between the distance and near zones. You, therefore, don’t have to worry about adjusting your glasses or finding the right angle to see clearly.
Made from a soft, flexible material that conforms to the shape of your eye, these soft contact lenses are comfortable to wear for long periods.
If you’re considering wearing contact lenses instead of reading glasses, here are some advantages and disadvantages to think about.
Advantages of soft disposable multifocal contact lenses
- Convenience: They are convenient and require little maintenance. They are especially good for activities like exercise or sports where glasses may slip or get in the way. Nor will they fog up in cold weather.
- Easy to care for: You replace soft disposable multifocal contact lenses on a regular basis. This means you don’t have to worry as much about cleaning and care as you would with traditional contact lenses. Simply dispose of them after wearing them for the recommended time period and pop in a fresh pair.
- Clear Vision: These contact lenses provide clear vision at various distances. You will be able to see clearly up close, far away, and at intermediate distances, which can be helpful for reading, driving, and other daily activities.
- Comfort: Soft disposable multifocal contact lenses are made of soft, flexible materials that conform to the shape of your eye.
- Appearance: Some people prefer the appearance of contact lenses over glasses.
Disadvantages of soft disposable multifocal contact lenses
- Cost: Soft disposable multifocal contact lenses can be more expensive than regular contact lenses or reading glasses. However, the cost may be worth it for people who prefer them.
- Adaptation: It may take some time to adjust to wearing multifocal lenses. Because the prescription zones are integrated into the lens, it can take some time for your brain to adjust to the different focal lengths. Some people may initially experience difficulty with focusing on different distances or depth perception. This can lead to temporary blurred vision and headaches.
Soft disposable multifocal contact lenses have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their comfort and convenience.
Speak to one of our experienced staff to determine if you’re thinking about contact lenses instead of reading glasses. We can help you find the right corrective options to suit you and your lifestyle. We can also keep an eye on you in the first few months to make sure you’re happy with your choice.
Contact lenses for see changes
Between our Henderson optometrists and our optometrists in Newmarket, our staff has dedicated over 35 years to helping Aucklanders through many a see change. If you’d to talk about changes in your vision and your options, call 09 522 1283 to schedule a comprehensive eye test.