Consider getting reading glasses if you notice a change in your vision. This is usually due to the aging process and is called presbyopia.
Many people don’t realize they need reading glasses because the symptoms are gradual and can go unnoticed. Here are six signs that it’s time to get reading glasses:
You Have Blurred Vision
A sudden onset of blurry vision should be addressed immediately with your eye doctor. The cause could be temporary and short-lived, but it could also indicate a more severe problem.
Blurred vision can also be an early sign of a common condition called presbyopia. This farsightedness usually begins around age 40, although it can occur sooner or later, depending on the individual.
One of the best ways to test whether you need reading glasses is to remove your eyeglasses and hold a printed chart about 14 inches away from your face. Begin by reading the top row of the graph; if you can read it clearly, you will know what power (or strength) of readers you need. This will help you avoid purchasing over-the-counter glasses that are too strong or weak. To learn more about how to find a pair of reading glasses that are the right fit for you, check out our guide on How to Shop for Reading Glasses.
You Are Always Turning Lights On
Seeing blurry or unfocussed text, especially when sitting indoors in bright light, indicates that your eyes are struggling to focus. This is caused by presbyopia & it usually starts in your 40s.
If you constantly turn the lights on to make things more precise, it is time to get your reading glasses. If you don’t, your eyes will eventually become tired from straining to focus, causing headaches or eye fatigue.
It is important to remember that it is entirely normal for most people to need reading glasses at some point in life. It is more common than not! The key is to understand the signs and symptoms to know when it’s time to see a doctor & pick out some new glasses. Getting the proper strength, like reading glasses for men, is essential to ensure comfort and clarity. Discussing bifocal or progressive lenses for those needing help with both near and far vision is vital. Getting the right prescription is crucial to preventing other eye health issues & ensuring that your idea is as healthy as possible.
You Are Holding Your Books or Electronics at Arm’s Length
Reading glasses indicate that it’s time to see your eye doctor for a prescription. The lenses used in reading glasses enlarge what is being seen, taking some strain off the eyes. The lenses can be found over the counter and come in different strengths called diopters. Typically, these strengths range from +1.00 up to +4.00.
If you find yourself holding your book or phone closer to your face than usual to decipher smaller print, this is a sign that it is time to get a pair of reading glasses. This is a normal part of the aging process known as presbyopia.
It’s best to get your prescription for reading glasses from an optometrist instead of a discount retailer. This way, you can be sure that the lenses are of the highest optical quality and fit you perfectly. It is also wise to look beyond the generic options at your local drugstore and consider using an online eyeglasses retailer that offers various frames, home try-on programs, and personalized customer service.
You Are Getting Headaches
If you have headaches when you read or do close-up tasks, it could be an early sign of presbyopia. Those muscles in your eye work harder than they should to compensate for the loss of elasticity in the lens, and overworking them leads to headaches.
Seeing halos around light sources is another early sign of presbyopia caused by the lens failing to focus light onto the retina properly. This can cause a circular halo pattern to appear around lights and headlights and create glare.
Regular comprehensive eye exams at least once a year are the best way to keep on top of your vision and ensure that you have a proper reading glasses prescription, which can be adjusted as needed. If you are due for a new pair of reading glasses, we recommend making an appointment with one of the top eye doctors near you using our Find a Physician tool. They can determine the correct strength reading glasses and help protect your eyes from the harmful effects of digital screens and blue light.
You Are Tired After Reading
Reading for extended periods can cause eye strain, primarily as the muscles work to focus the image through the lens and onto the retina. This can lead to fatigue, a sensation that the eyes are dry or itchy, and even headaches.
If you are finding that you are tired after reading or doing other close-up activities, it is likely a sign that it’s time for a new pair of glasses. Glasses will enlarge the text, reducing your eyes’ effort to view it. They can also reduce the impact of digital screens that emit blue light, which can be damaging to your eyes.
To find a suitable pair of reading glasses, head to your local drugstore and try on multiple pairs. Be sure to try the lowest power you can comfortably read with, as it is better to have a slightly weaker prescription than one that is too strong. Then, you can easily adjust your lenses when ready for a new pair. If you are still trying to decide, ask your optometrist for advice or book an appointment for a full eye exam.