Philip Walsh - Things To Consider About Reading Glasses

When 40 and over, the need to wear reading glasses regularly is most commonly due to presbyopia, the medical term for a condition that mimics farsightedness. Presbyopia is not a disease, but a natural condition that results from the aging process of the body, including the eyes. The need for reading glasses is very normal (almost a universal condition) and unfortunately, no surgical procedures can currently correct presbyopia.

Presbyopia is when the lens of the eye begins to lose its elasticity and the eyes begin to lose the natural ability to focus on small objects, causing them to appear blurred up close.

If you answer yes to one or more of the following questions, you should visit your local Specsavers optometrist for an eye exam:

• Do you get headaches or sore eyes while reading for more than a few minutes?
• Do you squint when trying to read a book or magazine?
• Do you hold books at arm’s length when reading?
• Do you push your computer monitor back in order to see it better?
• Is it over two years since the last time you had an eye exam?

After an eye exam your optometrist will be able to determine whether or not you need reading glasses and if you have any other eye health issues. Prescription glasses come in a range of sophisticated styles and colours, so you can look forward to picking some out if you need them!

It is recommended that everyone get their eyes tested every two years. However, at any age, if you notice changes in your eyesight you should have your eyes examined straight away. For more information or to request an eye exam, talk to your local Specsavers optometrist or visit www.specsavers.co.nz.