When Do You Need Reading Glasses? Signs Seniors Should Know
According to The Vision Council, over 80% of Americans use a form of vision correction. This means that it's very likely that you wear either glasses or contacts, and you may have done so for years.
But vision isn't a static thing, and you may already know this since your prescription has changed throughout the years. And with aging eyesight, there may come a time when vision changes require reading glasses.
When do you need reading glasses, though? And how can you tell when you do? Read on to find out more about eye health in seniors in Lee's Summit, MO.
When Do You Need Reading Glasses?
Every person's different, but typically, people start needing reading glasses after the age of 40. This is thanks to a condition called presbyopia, where you lose the ability to focus on nearby objects.
Research shows that 83% to 89% of adults 45 or older need reading glasses, and that number jumps to nearly 100% for those who are 65 or older. So essentially, it's not a question of if you'll need reading glasses, but rather, when.
Common Signs That You Might Need Reading Glasses
Now that you're aware of presbyopia, how does it show up in your life? Below are the common signs.
Blurry Vision When Reading Close Up
Do words on a page or screen seem fuzzy? Are you using a normal reading distance of 12-16 inches, and this still happens? If you're squinting to read things like medicine labels or menus, then this is a classic sign of presbyopia.
Needing to Hold Reading Material Further Away
In many cases, seniors will instinctively move their reading materials farther from their eyes to focus. This is often called "short-arm syndrome," and it's a definite telltale sign of age-related focus issues.
Eye Strain or Fatigue After Reading
If your eyes feel tired, sore, or strained after doing close-up work (such as sewing, reading, or using a smartphone), then it might mean that your eyes are working too hard to focus. You might also be squinting without realizing it.
Frequent Headaches
Straining to see things up close can cause tension headaches, especially around the eyes or forehead. You'll often experience this after extended periods of reading or screen use.
Difficulty Reading in Low Light
Another common sign of presbyopia is difficulty reading in dim lighting. If you've noticed that you need to turn up the brightness on your devices or you're turning on lamps earlier in the day, then your eyes may need help.
Frequent Loss of Focus When Switching Distances
Typically, we have no problem adjusting from near to far vision. But if you have a frequent loss of focus when switching from reading a book and then looking up at the TV, then you may have presbyopia.
What to Do if You Notice These Signs
You don't have to live with reading vision loss. There are things you can do to help.
Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam
The first thing you should do is schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. You should be keeping up with Lee's Summit eye care anyway, as eye health is linked to your overall well-being.
They'll conduct a refraction test, as well as assess your overall eye health, checking for:
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Macular degeneration
All of the above are common in older adults, so it'll be good to get a clean bill of health.
Consider Over-the-Counter (OTC) Reading Glasses
If you're only mildly affected by presbyopia, then it's possible to fix it with OTC reading glasses. You can visit a pharmacy or store that allows you to test different strengths; most carry a range from +1.00 to +3.50 diopters.
Grab a magazine or something with a label and try reading with different strengths until the text is sharp and comfortable.
Get Prescription Glasses if Needed
If you realize that you have different vision in each eye, already wear glasses, or have more complex vision issues, then you probably need a custom prescription.
After getting your eyes checked, your optometrist or ophthalmologist will give you your prescription and recommend the following:
- Bifocals (split lenses)
- Progressives (lenses with a gradual change in power)
- Separate reading glasses (just for up-close tasks)
Use Digital Tools and Accessibility Settings
You can always enhance your comfort with senior living tech, starting with your smartphone. There are also e-readers and computers that allow you to:
- Increase font size
- Use magnification tools
- Adjust contrast and brightness
While you're adjusting to your new reading glasses, these settings can reduce eye strain.
Adopt Better Eye Habits
Treat your eyes nicely and adopt better eye habits. You should follow the 20-20-20 rule; every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
While you're reading, use natural light or full-spectrum LED lighting. This will reduce eye strain and headaches.
Lastly, take regular breaks, especially if you're doing prolonged close-up work. You can do some physical activities while taking breaks to keep up with fitness.
Watch for Changing Vision Over Time
Presbyopia tends to worsen gradually, so if you're not proactively watching out for signs, you may not notice. You may need a new prescription every few years, so keep the above signs in mind as you go through your golden years.
If you notice the following new symptoms, you should consult an eye doctor immediately:
- Double vision
- Sudden vision loss
- Eye pain
Take Care of Your Eye Health
So when do you need reading glasses? It really depends, but if you're over 65, it's very likely you need them now or in the near future.
It's important to see the eye doctor if you recognize the early signs. By acting promptly, you can get the proper prescription for reading glasses.
As a result, you'll be able to restore comfort and clarity, and you'll retain your independence too. That way, you can continue to enjoy reading, hobbies, and daily tasks with ease.
Get in touch with us today if you're interested in assisted living in Lee's Summit, MO. Addington Place of Lee's Summit provides a weekly housekeeping and laundry service for your convenience.