When it has been determined that a child needs corrective lenses, the first choice is usually eyeglasses. However, as he or she gets older, glasses might not still be the best option. Children sometimes think they are more attractive without glasses, or they might feel that their eyewear interferes with their daily activities, especially if sports are involved.
People can wear contacts at any age. Preteens are usually responsible enough and motivated enough to take care of their lenses. The experience of handling lenses and inserting them can be intimidating for any new contact lens wearer. If you know this responsibility will be a challenge for your child, it is a good idea to wait until he or she feels more comfortable with the idea.
With all the choices available in contact lenses, it’s easy to find one you and your child can live with. If your child does not want to clean the lenses, daily wear contacts can be worn all day and disposed of nightly. This makes daily wear disposables one of the simplest, most low-maintenance choices of contact lens. Extended wear contacts are also available, which can be worn up to 30 days, uninterrupted, before they are thrown away. These are a great choice for active teenagers.
For the most part, cleaning is less of a nuisance than it used to be. Advances in technology have made separate cleaning and sterilization products virtually obsolete. Now saline solution both cleans and sterilizes lenses, making for fewer steps to remember. This also lowers the risk of complications.
Having a discussion with your child and your eye care professional is a good start toward determining if your child is ready for contact lenses. You will be able to learn about the many types of lenses available and review the fitting process. You can also review the expectations for cleaning and maintenance of the lenses. This is a good time to go over any questions you or your child has, to set both of your minds at ease.