24 Oct 5 Myths About Progressive Lenses
Invented in the 1950s, progressive lenses are perhaps one of the best creations by mankind. These lenses are designed for people over 40 who have presbyopia- an age-related eye condition that makes it difficult for people to see nearby objects. They are also suitable for individuals requiring corrective lenses for nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Progressive lenses are also known as PALs or multifocal. Unlike regular single-vision glasses that contain a single prescription throughout the entire lens, progressive lenses offer a combination of prescriptions in a single lens. This distinguishes progressive lenses from standard eyeglasses and bifocals, limited to one or two predetermined prescriptions. Now that you’ve learned what progressive lenses are, it’s time to bust some myths about progressive lenses.
1. Progressive lenses are only for older people
Yes, progressive lenses are commonly prescribed to people in their 40s since it is around this age that one might develop presbyopia. However, reading prescriptions can be required in your 30s as well.
It is important to keep in mind that progressive lenses come in various types suitable for people of different age groups and are prescribed depending on individual needs and concerns. Some progressive lenses are designed to tackle a particular task such as indoor use, office use, computer use etc.
2. Progressive lenses are not comfortable
Various factors influence the comfort level of progressive lenses. Some of them are:
- Lens Type: The choice of progressive lenses should be based on individual needs, lifestyle, and visual demands.
- Lens Frame: It is essential to choose a frame that fits well and suits the wearer’s environment and prescription. For example, a large rectangular frame may not be suitable for someone with severe nearsightedness, as it can result in thicker and heavier lenses.
- Visual Needs/Requirements: Factors such as previous laser surgery, eye conditions like lazy eye, high prescriptions, complicated prescriptions, or binocular vision issues should be considered when selecting the best progressive lenses for your unique situation.
3. You get the same progressive lenses everywhere
One of the myths about progressive lenses is that all progressive lenses are identical. However, this fails to recognize the distinct differences in design, customization, and quality. Progressive lenses offer a range of options, from standard to premium designs tailored to individual prescriptions and lifestyles. Factors such as materials, lens power progression, and fitting processes are essential in providing comfort and clarity. It is crucial to consult with an eye care professional to select the correct lenses that meet your specific vision requirements.
4. One pair of progressive lenses is more than enough
The misconception that one pair of progressive lenses is suitable for all situations fails to acknowledge the diverse visual needs individuals encounter in their daily activities.
Various tasks such as reading, working on a computer, or driving entail different focal lengths and levels of visual clarity. Progressive lenses are designed to accommodate near, intermediate, and distance vision, but may not provide the best experience for every activity.
For instance, someone who spends extended periods at a computer may benefit from specialized lenses optimized for that specific task, ensuring enhanced comfort and reduced eye strain. Furthermore, the type of frame and lens design can impact performance. Progressive lenses tailored for casual wear may not be ideal for sports or outdoor activities that require durability and a broader field of vision.
Having multiple pairs of progressive lenses customized for specific tasks or environments can significantly improve visual comfort and overall quality of life.
5. Progressive lenses can be used by everyone
The belief that a single pair of progressive lenses can meet all visual needs disregards the varying demands of daily activities. Tasks such as reading, using a computer, or driving require different focal lengths and levels of visual clarity. Progressive lenses offer a range of options, from standard to premium designs tailored to individual prescriptions and lifestyles. For instance, individuals who spend a significant amount of time working on a computer may benefit from lenses that are specifically tailored for that task, providing enhanced comfort and reducing eye strain.
Furthermore, the belief that progressive lenses are suitable for everyone fails to acknowledge the individual differences in vision requirements and comfort levels. While these lenses are intended to address presbyopia, a common age-related condition, not all individuals may find them suitable. Some people may struggle to adapt to the multi-focal design, resulting in visual discomfort or distortion.
Now that you’ve learned these 5 myths about progressive lenses, it’s important that you make a correct decision when it comes to choosing the right glasses. If you think that you have presbyopia or any other eye vision problem, schedule an appointment with Dr. D’Orio Eyecare today. You can visit https://drdorioeyecare.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 416-656-2020 for our Toronto location, or 416-661-5555 for our North York location.
