What Are the Benefits of Bifocals?

People who experience difficulty seeing objects that are close, such as small print on a page, as well as objects at a farther distance often wear eyeglasses containing bifocal lenses. Bifocals, which require a prescription targeting both needs, have several advantages.

Convenience

• Bifocal lenses eliminate the need to switch back and forth between two pairs of glasses---one for distance vision and another for reading.

Cost

• Because the wearer needs one pair of prescription glasses instead of two, bifocals can be very cost effective.

Health

• Over-the-counter reading glasses work reasonably well, but prescription bifocals adjusted by an eye care professional may cut down on eye strain and fatigue associated with work that requires good near-distance vision. Properly fitted eyewear with custom-ground lenses may also eliminate vision distortion that causes trips and falls.

Protection

• Bifocal lenses with protective anti-ultraviolet coating and anti-glare coating---and even sunglass-type bifocals---help protect eyes in any light and make daily chores like driving much easier and safer. Evidence indicates wearing them may slow the progression of near-sightedness.