Can You Wear Contact Lenses and Reading Glasses at the Same Time?
Many of us enjoy clear distance vision for decades thanks to corrective lenses. However, with increasing age, we often encounter a new challenge: Presbyopia or age-related farsightedness. This natural change in the eyes weakens near vision, making reading and other activities that require good close-up vision more difficult. For people who are already nearsighted and now experiencing age-related vision changes, the question arises: Can I wear contact lenses and reading glasses at the same time? The short answer is: Yes! This solution allows you to combine the benefits of both visual aids – clear distance vision through contact lenses and improved near vision through reading glasses. However, there are other options that can offer comfort and visual acuity.
In short:
- Age-related farsightedness occurs from the age of 40 and weakens near vision. This can be easily corrected with reading glasses. However, if you are already nearsighted, this can be a problem.
- Contact lenses and reading glasses can be worn simultaneously. The advantages are flexibility and adaptability. On the other hand, this can be more complicated as it is an additional item that can be forgotten or broken.
- Another option would be multifocal contact lenses. They are comfortable, invisible, and provide consistent vision. However, they require an adjustment period and are more expensive.
- If you are unsure, consult an eye specialist for the best solution.
The Challenge of Age-Related Farsightedness (Presbyopia)
Age-related farsightedness, also known as Presbyopia, typically occurs from the age of 40. As we age, the eye’s lens loses its elasticity and thus the ability to focus on close objects. This leads to blurred near vision, especially when reading or doing close-up work.
This change also affects people who are already nearsighted. They now have to deal with the challenge of being able to see clearly both at a distance and up close. Often they notice that they have to hold texts further away from their eyes to see them clearly.
Option 1: Using Contact Lenses and Reading Glasses Simultaneously
During the day, you wear your contact lenses to ensure clear distance vision. When you need near vision, for example when reading a book or working on the computer, you simply put on reading glasses. These glasses are specifically adjusted to the strength you need for clear near vision.
Benefits:
- Flexibility: Easy switching between distance and near vision.
- Adaptable: Ideal for changing vision strengths in various activities.
Disadvantages:
- Additional item: Constantly carrying reading glasses.
- Aesthetics: Some find wearing both visual aids impractical.
- Forgetting: Reading glasses can be easily forgotten.
This combination offers a practical solution for seeing clearly both at a distance and up close, despite possible inconveniences.
Option 2: Multifocal Contact Lenses as an Alternative
Multifocal contact lenses have different zones for various distances, similar to bifocal reading glasses/progressive lenses. These zones allow the eye to switch between near, intermediate, and distance vision as needed. The brain learns to automatically use the right zone for each distance.
Advantages over the combination of contact lenses and reading glasses:
- Comfort: No constant switching between contact lenses and reading glasses.
- Aesthetics: Invisible correction, as no additional glasses are required.
- Convenience: Ideal for an active lifestyle, as no additional reading glasses need to be carried.
- Consistent vision: Allows seamless vision correction for all distances, without interruption.
Disadvantages:
- Adjustment period: It can take some time for the eyes and brain to get used to multifocal lenses.
- Costs: Multifocal contact lenses can be more expensive than regular contact lenses and reading glasses.
Multifocal contact lenses are an excellent option for those seeking a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing solution to correct both near and far vision without relying on additional reading glasses.

Practical Tips for Selection and Use
The choice between contact lenses and reading glasses or multifocal contact lenses depends on your lifestyle and needs:
- Lifestyle: Multifocal contact lenses are ideal for active people as no additional glasses are needed. For avid readers, the combination of contact lenses and reading glasses is practical.
- Budget: Multifocal lenses are more expensive than conventional lenses and reading glasses. If budget is tight, the combination can be more cost-effective.
- Adaptation: Multifocal lenses require an adjustment period. Visit your eye doctor regularly for adjustments.
- Care: Clean and maintain both lenses and reading glasses regularly to ensure comfort and clear vision.
- Combination: You don’t have to choose one or the other. Many people use both options depending on the situation.
Conclusion
In summary, both the combination of contact lenses and reading glasses and multifocal contact lenses offer effective solutions for people with myopia and presbyopia. The choice of the right option depends on your lifestyle, budget, and individual needs. Multifocal contact lenses offer comfort and convenience, while the combination of contact lenses and reading glasses can be flexible and cost-effective.
To find the best solution for your vision needs, we recommend consulting with an eye specialist. Professional advice will help you make the optimal choice for your vision correction.
If you’re looking for high-quality reading glasses, we offer a wide selection of stylish and functional models. Visit our website and find the perfect reading glasses to make your daily life easier and improve your vision.