If you have recently celebrated your 40th birthday, you may have begun to observe some alterations in your vision. You might find yourself needing to hold reading materials at a greater distance to clearly discern fine print, or you may struggle to shift your focus between distant and nearby objects.

Experiencing difficulty in seeing clearly at varying distances can be quite frustrating.

Fortunately, this issue can be effectively addressed with the use of multifocal contact lenses. In the following sections, we will discuss the causes and symptoms of presbyopia, as well as the numerous advantages of utilizing multifocal contact lenses.

What Is Presbyopia?

Presbyopia refers to the natural and gradual decline in the eye’s ability to focus on close objects.

The crystalline lens within the eye is responsible for focusing light onto the retina, adjusting its shape based on the focal distance. From infancy until the late 30s or early 40s, this lens typically remains clear, thin, and highly flexible, allowing for quick adjustments to maintain sharp vision across all distances.

However, between the ages of 40 and 50, the lens becomes significantly thicker and less flexible. This change hampers the lens’s ability to alter its shape and accurately refract light for near vision.

This condition can be easily remedied with reading glasses, bifocal or multifocal glasses, monovision contact lenses, or multifocal contact lenses.

Multifocal Contact Lenses for Presbyopia

Multifocal contact lenses feature multiple lens powers designed to correct vision across different visual zones, enabling clear sight for distant objects, nearby items, and everything in between.

Some multifocal contact lenses incorporate two lens powers (bifocals) for near and distance vision, while others offer a gradual transition in power, akin to progressive lenses. These lenses can be crafted from soft materials or rigid gas-permeable materials and are available in both daytime and extended wear options.

It is important to recognize that multifocal contact lenses may not be suitable for every individual, and some patients might need to experiment with various brands or designs to find the most effective option for their needs. To help alleviate any uncertainty, your optometrist will assist you in selecting the lenses that best align with your visual requirements and lifestyle.

If you are interested in exploring alternatives to reading glasses, please contact Eye Fashion Optical in Waco to arrange your contact lens consultation today!

Q&A:

#1: Are there any drawbacks associated with multifocal contact lenses?

Many multifocal contact lenses feature a “simultaneous vision” design, which enables users to see both distant and nearby objects at the same time through concentric zones. However, some individuals may experience difficulties adjusting to this design, leading to hazy vision and reduced contrast compared to single vision lenses. You may request your optometrist to fit you with multifocal lenses and provide a trial period for testing.

#2: When does presbyopia become stable?

Typically, individuals begin to experience age-related vision changes in their early to mid-40s. By the age of 60, vision tends to stabilize, resulting in a decreased need for frequent updates to your lens prescription. Nevertheless, it is crucial to have annual comprehensive eye examinations at this stage, as they allow your eye care professional to identify potential eye conditions and diseases at an early stage.