How Bifocal Lenses Can Help You

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 properly prescribed glasses. However, it is possible to be both farsighted and nearsighted. To correct this kind of vision, you need bifocal lenses. At Atlantic EyeCare in Virginia Beach, VA, our team provided 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 lens 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 to get used to them. Since the bottom part of the lens helps 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 simultaneously. 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 with enough space to accommodate the transition. Some people find progressive lenses more challenging to adjust to than traditional bifocals. Our optical team 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. Bifocals can help with presbyopia, but it’s essential to get an annual eye exam to ensure your vision doesn’t worsen.

See How We Can Help in Virginia Beach

Whether you need bifocal glasses or contact lenses, our optometrist at Atlantic EyeCare in Virginia Beach is ready to find the prescription and fit that is best for you. We care about your eyes and can help you find the bifocals you need for correct vision. Call us for an appointment at (757) 340-7070 or fill out our online appointment request form. Find out how we can help improve your vision.