As more people spend hours each day in front of their computers, quality computer reading glasses are becoming more and more a necessity. This is because they are experiencing more eye strain and fatigue. Known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), this condition can affect people of all ages who spend a lot of time on the computer. Some people may find this condition annoying while others may experience pain.
Most people sit so their computer screens are at an intermediate distance from them; about 20 to 26 inches. It is common after spending time in front of your screen to experience blurred vision and eye fatigue. The nature of computer screens puts more stress on the eyes than looking at the same material on a printed page.
Computer Reading Glasses
Computer reading glasses can help alleviate the problem and improve productivity while you’re in front of the computer. When your eyes get tired, it can be difficult for them to change focus quickly. This is called lag of accommodation. This lag is what causes headaches and eye strain. For people under the age of 40, computer reading glasses can help correct this lag time, making it easier to spend time on the computer.
For those over the age of 40, the problem may be compounded by presbyopia, which is the normal loss of the ability to focus on nearby objects that is related to age. If you have presbyopia and CVS, you are at a higher risk for developing eye strain, headaches and fatigue.
While some eye doctors may not be well versed in the new computer reading glasses, you can ask them about them at your next visit. With the high number of people who work daily on computers, this is a whole new realm of eye care.
If you already wear glasses, chances are they are not as suitable for computer work as specialized glasses will be. Most single vision glasses are made to increase your focus ability either nearby or far away. Your computer monitor is in between. Bifocals provide focus for both near and far, but again miss the intermediate distance. Trifocals do correct for that intermediate distance, but normal trifocals have a very narrow band of lens dedicated to that distance, making the wearer adjust their posture in unnatural and uncomfortable positions to see. This leads to backaches, shoulder pain and headaches.
Productivity
People who use computer reading glasses are showing an increase in their productivity and a reduction in errors. Some employers may even pay for the cost of computer glasses. Researchers have found that for every $1 spent on computer reading glasses, they are benefiting $18 in productivity and fewer errors. A study done at the University of Alabama showed that even minor improvements for workers on computers caused 38% fewer errors and 9% more productivity.
Designs
Computer glasses are not suitable for general purpose wear or for driving. Simple computer glasses have single vision lenses with a prescription to give the most comfort to the person wearing them. For those with presbyopia, occupational progressive bifocal lenses are designed to offer a larger area for the intermediate distance viewing while including a short distance area. Others opt for lined trifocals that have a larger intermediate zone in the lenses.