Philip Walsh - How do I change from single vision to multifocals or vice versa?

As with any new prescription or change to your eyewear, switching from single vision glasses to multifocals, or vice versa, may take some adjusting.

Having single vision glasses means the lenses offer just one focus for the eyes. This can be for a range of vision problems, such as to provide focus for long distances, for close-up reading, or for mid-range sight correction, such as for computer use.

Multifocals, on the other hand, offer a range of vision correction within the same lens. Multifocals as the name suggests, comprise of a combination of distance, intermediate and close vision correction.

Following this, bifocals will usually have two focuses, one for distance vision and the other for close vision.

Due to changes in the eyes, which often come with age, you may need to move from one form of prescription to another. This may seem strange at first, but will simply take some time to become used to the change.

When getting accustomed to graduated lenses (multifocals or bi-focals), one tip is to make a conscious effort to move your head instead of only moving your eyes. It will take a conscious effort at first when transitioning from looking at a screen to something further away, for example, but you will soon make this movement automatically.

In most cases, simply wearing the new glasses throughout the day for at least a week will quickly have you adjusting to the new eyewear and if problems persist, it is best to speak with your local optometrist.

For more information or to book an appointment, visit www.specsavers.co.nz.