As we age, our eyes age too and might need some help seeing at any or all distances. Progressive lenses (multifocal lenses) have three prescriptions in one pair of glasses. This allows you to do close-up work (like reading a book), middle-distance work (like checking out a website on a computer), or distance viewing (like driving) without needing to change your glasses. Progressive lenses are an updated version of bifocal or trifocal lenses; the big difference is that there is no line(s) in the lens, it is a seamless lens.
The power of progressive lenses changes gradually from point to point on the lens surface, providing the correct lens power for seeing objects clearly at virtually any distance.
There are different type of progressive lenses depending on your needs. If you do a lot of work at close range, such as bookkeeping, needlework or reading, your near field of vision may be wider to meet those needs. If you work at a computer, on the other hand, the mid-range “corridor” may be larger. Your eye doctor will help you find the right kind for your lifestyle and habits.
The benefits of progressive lenses is that you only need one pair of glasses! Vision with progressives can seem natural. Transitions from one distance to another will be uninterrupted, and you’ll see clearly across all visual areas. The drawback of progressives is that it takes time to adjust to the lenses. You need to train yourself to look out of the lower part of the lens when you’re reading, to look straight ahead for distance, and to look somewhere between the two spots for middle distance or computer work. Some people never adjust, but most do. During the learning period, you may feel dizzy and nauseas from looking through the wrong section of lens. There may also be some distortion of your peripheral vision (what you see on the edges when looking straight ahead).
There are other types of lenses to consider if progressives don’t work for you. Consult with Dr. Wise about what lens will work best for you.
