Do you find that your arms are not long enough to be able to read anymore? Do you struggle looking at the computer? or trying to read the newspaper? or even the mobile phone?
These are common questions that we as the optometrist ask all our patients. If you answered yes, then you may need reading glasses. Reading glasses are great for people who spend a great deal of time concentrating on material up close.
Other options include bifocal spectacles or multifocals in which you can look up into the distance and also see in the distance as opposed to reading glasses which are made purely for arms length viewing.
Reading glasses can be custom made for each individual by your optometrist and optical dispenser, or purchased from the Servo, pharmacy, $2 shop or department store as a “ready-made”. So what are the differences?
Well “ready-made” glasses are made as a “one-size-fits-all” item. They have the same lens in both eyes, the location of the optical centre of the lens isn’t customised, and may not fit you well at all. Now why does this matter?
As in the case of right or left-handedness, the same applies for the eye. Most people have one dominant eye and one not so dominant. Most people do not have the same prescription in both eyes, and most eyes are generally not symmetrically located on the face.
One size fits all implies that it will work for everyone. This may be the case for a short period of time, but will always cause problems such as headaches, eyestrain and even nausea. The same applies to everything else in life. We have options for a reason and this is the case with custom made spectacles.
For more information on eye health and eye conditions or to find your local Eyecare Plus optometrist visit: www.eyecarevision.com.au
About optometrists:
Optometrists are experts in vision care who diagnose, manage and treat a wide range of vision problems, eye diseases and ocular conditions. By prescribing spectacles, contact lenses, vision aids and other treatments, optometrists help their patients maximise and retain good vision for life.