How to Determine If I Need Bifocals

Presbyopia, which means "age of sight," is an eye condition that begins affecting people around the age of 40, when the eye begins to lose its ability to focus up close. Small detail and print becomes difficult to read. Bifocal lenses in glasses and contacts can help correct presbyopia and make reading easier. There are ways to determine if you are ready for bifocals.

Instructions

• 1

  Notice if you are holding things our further to read or bring them into focus. This is one of the first signs of needing bifocals. Small print on medicine bottles or food labels that suddenly seem smaller are a good indication that you are ready for help with reading.

• 2

  Take off your glasses if you are near-sighted (use your glasses to see for distance). If you can read with your glasses off, you probably need bifocals.

• 3

  Notice if you have blurry vision in the distance for a few moments after you look up from reading. If your eyes are becoming tired or strained when reading, you will experience difficulty when you try to see across the room or far away.

• 4

  Test your near vision by holding a book or newspaper with small print approximately 14 to 16 inches from your eyes. If you have trouble reading comfortably, you may need bifocals.

• 5

  Do not assume all near vision problems mean that you need bifocals. Some illnesses, like diabetes, also affect your vision; the only way to be sure what is causing your difficulties with your vision is to have a comprehensive exam by a licensed eye care practitioner.