Over 40 and starting to have vision problems? You may benefit from Bifocal Lenses to Help You See Near and Far

If seeing up-close objects isn't as easy as it used to be, you're not alone. More likely than not, you have presbyopia, a vision condition that makes it harder to change focus between near and distant objects. For most, presbyopia is a natural part of aging. Do you have presbyopia? You may if you:

• are age 40 or older.
• move things further away to help you read.
• find it difficult to perform certain close-up tasks.
• get sleepy, have headaches, or have trouble focusing while trying to read.
• have difficulty reading in dim light.
• notice these symptoms worsening as the day goes on.

If you notice any of these symptoms, see an eyecare professional to determine if you need vision correction. You may receive a prescription for bifocal lenses.

What are bifocal lenses?

Bifocal contact lenses, which are designed to improve vision in people with presbyopia, work much like bifocal eyeglasses. Bifocal lenses have two powers on each lens-one to correct distance vision and the other to correct near vision.

Some designs of bifocal lenses place the distance vision at the top of the lens and the near vision at the bottom. Bifocal lenses are similar to bifocal eyeglasses, which have the thin line across the lens that separates the powers. Bifocal lenses also may work like progressive eyeglass lenses, in which the different prescriptive powers are blended on different parts of the lens. With the progressive design, the eye learns to differentiate the proper power for the correct distance.

What kinds of bifocal lenses are available?

Bifocal lenses are made in soft and rigid gas permeable materials. Disposable or frequent replacement wear lenses are available, depending on the user's prescription. Daily disposable bifocal lenses are a good option for some. Wear them for one day, then toss them. With daily disposable bifocal lenses, each day starts with a fresh, clean pair.

For more information about bifocal lenses or presbyopia, talk to your eyecare professional.

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