Many of us enjoy clear television for decades thanks to corrective lenses. But as we get older, we often encounter a new challenge: presbyopia or presbyopia. This natural change in the eyes weakens near vision, making reading and other activities that require good near vision difficult. For people who are already short-sighted and are now experiencing age-related visual 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 with contact lenses and improved near vision with reading glasses. But there are other options that can offer comfort and visual acuity.

In short:

  • Presbyopia occurs from the age of 40 and weakens near vision. This can easily be remedied with reading glasses. However, if you are already short-sighted, this can be a problem.
  • Contact lenses and reading glasses can be worn at the same time. The advantages are flexibility and adaptability. On the other hand, it 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 offer consistent vision. However, they take time to get used to and are more expensive.
  • If you are unsure, consult an eye specialist for the best solution.

The challenge of presbyopia (age-related vision loss)

Presbyopia, also known as presbyopia, typically occurs from the age of 40. With increasing age, the lens of the eye loses its elasticity and therefore its 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 short-sighted. They now have to deal with the challenge of being able to see clearly both at a distance and up close. They often notice that they have to hold texts further away from their eyes in order to see them clearly.

Option 1: Use contact lenses and reading glasses at the same time

During the day, you wear your contact lenses to ensure clear vision at a distance. If you then need close-up vision, for example when reading a book or working on the computer, simply put on a pair of reading glasses. These glasses are specially adapted to the power you need for sharp near vision.

Advantages:

  • Flexibility: Easy switching between distance and close-up vision.
  • Adaptable: Ideal for changing visual acuity for different activities.

Disadvantages:

  • Additional item: Always carry reading glasses with you.
  • Aesthetics: Some people find wearing both visual aids impractical.
  • Forgetting: Reading glasses are easy to forget.

This combination offers a practical solution for seeing clearly both at a distance and close up, despite the possible discomfort.

Option 2: Multifocal contact lenses as an alternative

Multifocal contact lenses have different zones for different distances, similar to bifocal reading glasses / varifocals. These zones allow the eye to switch between near, intermediate and distance vision as required. The brain learns to automatically use the correct zone for the respective distance.

Advantages over the combination of contact lenses and reading glasses:

  • Comfort: No need to constantly switch between contact lenses and reading glasses.
  • Aesthetics: Invisible correction as no additional glasses are required.
  • Convenience: Ideal for an active lifestyle, as there is no need to carry additional reading glasses.
  • Consistent vision: Allows seamless vision correction for all distances, without interruption.

Disadvantages:

  • Acclimatization phase: 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 normal contact lenses and reading glasses.

Multifocal contact lenses are an excellent option for those looking for a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing solution to correct both near and distance vision without the need for 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 required. For bookworms, the combination of contact lenses and reading glasses is practical.
  • Budget: Multifocal lenses are more expensive than conventional lenses and reading glasses. If the budget is tight, the combination can be cheaper.
  • Familiarization: Multifocal lenses require a familiarization period. Visit your ophthalmologist regularly for adjustments.
  • Care: Clean and care for 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 short-sightedness and presbyopia. Choosing 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 visual needs, we recommend a consultation with an eye specialist. A professional consultation will help you make the best choice for your vision correction.

If you are looking for high-quality reading glasses, we offer a wide selection of stylish and functional models. Visit our website and find the perfect pair of reading glasses to make your everyday life easier and improve your vision.