Understanding the natural aging of your eyes
Your eyes undergo a natural and unavoidable aging process known as presbyopia. Starting around the age of 40, the crystalline lens inside your eye gradually becomes less flexible and loses its ability to change shape to focus on close-up objects, like a phone or book. This is different from hyperopia (long sight or farsightedness), which is often caused by the shape of the eyeball and can affect a person at any age. However, many people who already have hyperopia will find that the onset of presbyopia complicates their vision further, necessitating a correction that addresses both near and distance vision.
Presbyopia makes near tasks increasingly difficult, forcing individuals to hold reading materials further away to see clearly—a classic sign of the condition. For someone who already needs glasses for long sight, this poses a dilemma: wear their long-distance glasses and struggle to read, or constantly switch to a separate pair of reading glasses. This is where varifocals become an ideal solution.
How varifocals solve the dual-vision problem
Varifocal lenses, also known as progressive lenses, are a sophisticated type of multifocal lens that seamlessly incorporates multiple prescriptions into a single lens. This design provides a gradual, continuous transition of lens power from distance vision at the top, to intermediate vision in the middle, and near vision at the bottom. For individuals with both long sight and presbyopia, this means:
- Clear distance vision: The top portion of the lens corrects for far objects, such as driving or watching television.
- Intermediate clarity: The middle area provides a smooth transition for tasks like computer work, which is not covered by bifocals.
- Sharp near vision: The bottom section offers the magnification needed for reading small text or doing other close-up activities.
This continuous transition eliminates the image 'jump' experienced with traditional bifocal lenses, where vision abruptly shifts as you look across the dividing line. Varifocals offer a more natural, youthful, and convenient viewing experience, all within one lens.
Adapting to your varifocal lenses
Adjusting to varifocal lenses requires a new way of using your eyes and head, as you must learn to look through the correct part of the lens for each task. While most people adapt within a few days to a couple of weeks, some common challenges may arise, such as initial dizziness or distorted peripheral vision. Patience and consistent wear are key to a successful transition.
Tips for first-time varifocal wearers
- Move your head, not just your eyes: When focusing on an object, point your nose and move your head towards it rather than just shifting your gaze.
- Wear them consistently: Resist the urge to switch back to your old glasses, as this will hinder your brain's adaptation process.
- Practice in different environments: Familiarize yourself with how your vision changes by testing your new varifocals in various settings, from reading indoors to walking outside.
Varifocal vs. other lens options
| Feature | Varifocal Lenses | Bifocal Lenses | Single-Vision Lenses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Prescriptions | Multiple (near, intermediate, far) | Two (near and far) | One (near or far) |
| Visible Line | No, a seamless transition | Yes, a clear dividing line | No |
| Clarity at all Distances | Excellent, provides intermediate vision | Only near and far, no intermediate | Only one distance is clear |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Looks like regular glasses | Visible lines can be less desirable | Looks like regular glasses |
| Initial Adjustment | May take time to adapt | Typically easier, but image jump occurs | Minimal adjustment needed |
Conclusion
For those who experience the combination of long sight (hyperopia) and age-related presbyopia, varifocal lenses are a highly practical and convenient solution. They provide a single, sophisticated pair of glasses that corrects vision for all distances, eliminating the hassle of switching between multiple pairs. By providing a natural and seamless viewing experience, varifocals significantly improve the quality of life for millions as they navigate the natural changes in their eyesight. The initial adaptation period is a small price to pay for the long-term benefits of clear, effortless vision at any distance.
An eye care professional can provide the correct prescription and guidance to ensure a smooth transition to varifocal lenses, especially for those with existing long sight who are just beginning to experience the effects of presbyopia.
