From driving a vehicle at night to reading your favorite book, vision problems like astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness can make everyday tasks more challenging.
According to a 2018 study, astigmatism affects up to 40% of the adult population. If you are in this group or dealing with a different type of eye disorder, you may consider prescription single vision lenses to improve your eyesight and help you achieve clear vision once and for all.
Read on to learn more about single vision glasses, who they benefit, and how they can help you enjoy clearer vision and a better quality of life.
Key takeaways
- Single vision glasses can help correct vision problems connected to eye disorders like astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness.
- Single vision glasses contain a uniform prescription across the entire lens, eliminating the need for multiple pairs of prescription glasses in some individuals.
- These lenses can be more affordable than multifocal or progressive lenses.
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What does single vision mean?
Single-vision glasses are among the most common type of prescription glasses. True to their name, they provide a single focal length for a specific distance.
While single-vision glasses can help correct the vision of individuals struggling with near or distance vision, by their nature, they cannot correct both. This is because single-vision lenses are only capable of correcting one field of vision and therefore can not be used to correct multiple fields of vision.
Unlike multifocal lenses, single vision lenses contain a uniform prescription across the entire lens. This makes them ideal for helping to correct various vision issues.
Single vision glasses correct common issues like astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness, making them a practical choice for many people.
Eye conditions
Single vision glasses can be used to correct the following eye conditions:
Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a type of refractive error that can cause blurry or distorted vision at all ranges.
Nearsightedness (myopia)
Nearsightedness is a common eye disorder characterized by seeing close objects clearly while distant objects appear blurry.
Farsightedness (hyperopia)
This common refractive error occurs where light focuses behind the retina rather than on it. This can result in blurred vision for close objects, while more distant ones appear clear.
In addition to the above eye disorders, single vision glasses can also be beneficial for those who have trouble reading or driving. They can also help individuals better perform other daily activities such as computer work.
More affordable than multifocal lenses, single vision glasses are a great choice for individuals with specific vision needs.
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What are the key differences between single-vision and progressive lenses?
Lens type is extremely important when shopping for a pair of eyeglasses.
Single vision lenses, for example, offer a straightforward solution to vision correction for those who don’t require multifocal or progressive lenses. And, while there are some similarities between single vision lenses and progressive lenses, there are also key differences that set them apart.
Single-vision glasses are designed to correct vision at one focal length. On the other hand, progressive lenses are designed to correct for all ranges of distance including near, intermediate distances, and far distances all through a single lens.
Benefits of single-vision glasses
One of the biggest benefits of single-vision glasses is their simplicity.
Easy to wear and easy to adjust to, this type of lens can help individuals see far distances or achieve one specific task.
Single-vision lenses provide a more affordable option than other types of lenses, which require different prescriptions.
Progressive lens pros
Progressive lenses provide seamless, multifocal vision utilizing a gradual power transition.
They eliminate visible lines, allowing for a natural look. Other key benefits of progressive lenses include clearer vision at near, intermediate, and far distances, as well as reduced eyestrain and a more youthful appearance when compared to traditional bifocals.
Are single-vision glasses more expensive than other lens types?
Although progressive lenses are typically costlier due to their complex design, they also eliminate the need for different prescriptions and multiple pairs of glasses, such as reading glasses. Due to this, single-vision lenses may prove more affordable in the long run.
Who can benefit from single vision lenses?
Many people can benefit from single vision glasses, including individuals who have difficulties seeing up close or far away.
Single vision lenses are beneficial for those with a single refractive error needing correction, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Single vision lenses are even beneficial for individuals who require lenses to help them see a particular distance and achieve specific visual tasks. This can include various hobbies.
Single-vision glasses can also well-suited for those with presbyopia, which is an age-related vision change.
What are single-vision lenses made of?
Single vision glasses are highly customizable, meaning they can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Some lens materials used to make single-vision eyewear include:
- Plastic
- Polycarbonate
- Glass
Custom options for single-vision glasses
There are also customization options for lenses.
For example, single-vision lenses can be treated with anti-glare or anti-reflective coatings, helping to reduce reflections and improve vision under different lighting conditions.
Single-vision glasses at Oculus Eyecare
Oculus Eyecare carries a wide range of single-vision lenses and other eyewear from some of today's most luxurious and dependable brands. If you are having difficulty determining which pair of prescription glasses is best for your unique needs, schedule an appointment with a trained eye care professional.
From conducting a thorough eye exam to helping you choose the perfect prescription eyeglasses that match your unique needs and style, Oculus Eyecare is dedicated to helping clients see more clearly.
Conclusion
Purchasing the right corrective lenses is one of the best things you can do to preserve your eyesight as you age.
While both single vision and progressive lenses can help you achieve clearer vision, some individuals may find single-vision glasses to be more beneficial for their lifestyle.
If you require vision correction for eye issues like nearsightedness or astigmatism, a single vision prescription from your eye doctor may be just the trick to obtaining the eyesight you deserve.
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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.