It is not at all uncommon that people who wear contact lenses eventually find the need to add a pair of reading glasses to their visual toolbox. So why is it that, if you are wearing contact lenses do you still require a pair of glasses? And, are they always necessary, or is it possible to get away with just wearing your contacts?
Depending on your necessary vision correction, your contacts have probably been prescribed for optimal distance correction; which is what most people need prior to the age of about 40. After or around the age of 40, presbyopia sets in and another correction for reading is required.
So as a 40 something contact lens wearer, what exactly are your options? Let’s start with the simplest. If you are happy with your distance vision and you are happy to flaunt some of the stylish reading glasses available today, you can keep your lenses the same and simply slip on a pair of readers when necessary. You will want to be sure to remember to bring them when you go out to dinner, as dim lights make everything more challenging to see.
Another alternative is to visit your friendly contact lens fitter and see if they can upgrade your lens system into a multifocal or monovision design. Fitting multifocal contact lenses is a bit more time consuming than your average distance vision fitting, however if you are dealing with an experienced lens specialist, you are certainly going to be pleased with the end results.
Multifocal contact lenses come in many varieties, from soft disposable lenses to gas permeable designs. And most recently, the hybrid multifocal contact lens that promises the comfort of soft contacts with the superior vision of gas permeable lenses.
Monovision, or modified monovision, allows your contact lens practitioner to evaluate and adjust your lenses based on eye dominance and visual demands. As stated earlier, mulitfocal lenses are a fantastic option when in the hands of a qualified lens fitter.
With all the options available, you can see that the need for reading glasses does not mean you have to wear eyeglasses around your neck for the rest of your life. Multifocal lenses can drastically reduce the need for them. I encourage you evaluate a pair of multifocal lenses; give them a week or two to get used to the vision. And if you still like to find a pair of quality reading glasses, enjoy and have fun with them.