According to the University of Minnesota, approximately 78 million Americans wear bifocals, a type of lens that allows an individual to easily and quickly change between two different prescriptions. Typically, the upper portion of the lens is designed for distance vision, while the lower portion of the lens is designed for near vision. Progressive lenses, another type of multifocal lenses, are typically the go-to option for individuals seeking eyewear with two prescriptions.
Keep reading to learn more about bifocals, why they're needed, and how they work.
Key Takeaways
- Bifocals are a type of glasses that have two different prescriptions. The upper part of the lens is for distance vision, while the lower part is for near vision.
- Bifocals are typically needed for individuals with age-related presbyopia, an eye condition that causes the progressive and natural loss of near vision.
- There are various types of bifocals, including traditional bifocals, progressive bifocals, and trifocals. Progressives are the go-to option for multifocal lenses.
- If you think you'd benefit from a pair of bifocals, stop by our Seattle eye clinic to update your prescription and find a new pair of luxury frames.
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What Sets Bifocals Apart From Traditional Lenses?
Bifocals are glasses that correct both distance and near vision. They have a single lens that has two lens powers. By comparison, traditional glasses only have one lens power in a single lens.
Bifocal lenses are divided into two sections. The upper part is for distance vision correction, and the lower part is for near vision correction.
Having dual lens powers in one lens means that you can have vision correction for both near and distance vision. This allows you to switch between different tasks without switching between multiple pairs of glasses. It also allows you to do things like read a book or work at a computer without sacrificing the ability to see far.
However, bifocals are not often prescribed and are quite rare. Progressive lenses are the go-to option for multifocal lenses, as they do not have the visible line that bifocal lenses do.
Computer & Task-Specific Glasses
Many people who choose bifocals or progressives enjoy the comfort and functionality that these types of lenses offer. They are often worn when completing close-up tasks, such as reading fine print or working at a computer.
However, we recommend that individuals use task-specific glasses when completing close-up tasks. Computer glasses or reading glasses will make long hours of working far more comfortable and enjoyable by ensuring clear vision and reducing strain. Though bifocal glasses and progressive glasses may be somewhat rare, computer glasses are a more common option for people who have a refractive error.
Photo Credit: @orgreenoptics
Factors Influencing the Need for Multifocal Lenses
There are a few reasons why someone may need bifocal glasses. Most people are either nearsighted or farsighted, but it's not common to be both. There are a few key factors that can influence the need for bifocal glasses.
- Refractive errors: A refractive error, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness, can influence the need for bifocal glasses.
- Occupational demands: Individuals who are required to focus on close objects for an extended period of time may need bifocal glasses earlier than others.
- Eye health: Certain eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy can affect near vision.
- Lifestyle: Hobbies or activities that cause individuals to focus on close objects for an extended period of time, like sewing or reading, can influence the need for bifocal glasses.
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Presbyopia
People most often need bifocals due to a condition called presbyopia. Presbyopia, which naturally occurs with age, is the progressive loss of the ability to focus on near objects. This can make tasks like reading books or using digital devices quite difficult.
Presbyopia typically occurs in the mid-40s. Symptoms of presbyopia include eye strain, consistent headaches, and difficulty focusing on close-up objects. Because presbyopia is a progressive condition, it can be challenging to notice right away. That's why annual eye exams are so crucial!
At your comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor will screen you for signs of eye conditions, including presbyopia. Early detection is key for the prevention and treatment of eye conditions like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, or glaucoma.
Types of Bifocals
Traditional bifocals were first patented by Benjamin Franklin in 1784 and have since undergone immense innovation and improvements. Now, there are a few different types of bifocal glasses available. The perfect pair will depend on your vision needs and personal style.
Traditional Bifocals
Traditional bifocal lenses have a visible line that separates the two prescriptions. Some find this line distracting, while others find it handy, as it allows them to easily identify the portion of the lens they want to use. The two prescriptions are not always symmetrical; depending on your vision needs, they may be half-moons, rectangles, or circular.
Progressive Bifocals
If you find the visible line on traditional bifocals distracting, progressive lenses offer a comfortable solution. Bifocals are actually quite rare, and progressives are more commonly prescribed for individuals needing multifocals. Progressive lenses do not have a visible line; instead, they seamlessly blend the two prescriptions. Progressive lenses gradually change between the upper and lower portions, allowing individuals to use the prescription that offers the most clarity and comfort.
Photo Credit: @lapimaofficial
Trifocals
Bifocal lenses aren't the only type of multifocal lenses out there. Trifocal lenses take it up a notch by offering three prescriptions instead of two. The three portions are made for distance, intermediate, and near vision. This further helps individuals see clearly at various distances.
The Bottom Line
Bifocal glasses and progressive glasses are a type of multifocal glasses that allow individuals with multiple prescriptions to enjoy clarity and comfort with a single pair of glasses. To determine if bifocals or progressives are right for you, it's important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam to gain valuable insight into your eye health and vision needs.
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Oculus Eyecare is Seattle’s premier optometry practice and optical boutique for those looking to see and be seen in a new way. Located in South Lake Union on Denny Way, Oculus Eyecare offers comprehensive eye care services and exams for individuals and families in Seattle. Click here to schedule an appointment or a personal styling session. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.