While there are some things that get better with age, our vision usually isn’t one of them. Over time our eyesight changes, which means at some point, you may find yourself asking the question, “are progressive multifocal lenses right for me?”
What are progressive lenses?
First things first, what are progressive multifocal lenses anyway? Progressive multifocal lenses offer multifocal power covering near to distance vision through progressional power change, instead of the traditional two (bifocal) to three (trifocal) distinct prescriptions within one lens that your parents or grandparents wore before. The biggest difference between progressive multifocal lenses and bifocals or trifocals is that there are no lines separating the progressive changes in power from distance to near, so the transitions are seamless.
The lenses are designed for people who require assistance seeing both up-close (30 cm | 12 inches), intermediate (>30 to < 200 cm | >12 to < 72 inches) and far away (> 200 cm | > 72 inches). The gradual transition between the various prescriptions is designed to accommodate your natural eye movement and focus. The top section of the lens is for distance, the middle is for neutral or intermediate distances, and the bottom is to help you see things up-close.
How can progressive multifocal lenses benefit you?
Keep It Simple
The main benefit of switching to these lenses is that you’ll only need one pair of glasses to see from distance to near. This means you won’t have to constantly change your glasses based on the activity you are doing. You can transition from sightseeing to reading a map with ease so that you can spend more time enjoying life instead of trying to bring it into focus.
Seamless Vision
Many presbyopes (old sightedness) prescription wearers put off transitioning from single vision to bifocals or trifocals because they don’t want to wear glasses with a visible line that runs across them. These multifocal lenses allow you to enjoy all of the benefits of multiple prescriptions covering distance, intermediate, and near vision without having to feel older than your age. The gradual and seamless transition between each prescription makes wearing progressive multifocal lenses easier on your vision as well because there is no sharp jump as your eyes shift from one distinctly powered vision zone to another.
Cost
Some people, lacking the background information or experience, view the cost of progressive lenses as a negative, but when you consider the alternative, they aren’t that pricey for the benefits in the technology offered. Having multiple pairs of single-vision glasses can get quite expensive, and it’s extremely inconvenient. Although bifocals and trifocals are a less expensive alternative to progressive multifocal lenses, when most people first require multiple presbyopic prescriptions, they are in their 30s and 40s, so they aren’t too keen on wearing lenses with a visible line through them.
So, are progressive multifocal lenses right for you?
The available industry statistics claim 90-98% adaptation to progressive multifocal lenses but ultimately only you can decide if progressive multifocal lenses are right for you with the help of a licensed Optician. That being said, if you have trouble with your distance and near vision, they are likely the best solution.
Want to find out if progressive lenses are right for you?
Visit your local Hakim Optical and consult with our highly educated and trained opticians!
Since 1967, Hakim Optical Factory Outlet has been providing Canadians with the highest quality corrective prescription lenses at a reasonable value that can’t be beat. Our knowledgeable staff and independent doctors of optometry are available to help you find an eyewear solution tailored specifically to your needs.
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