According to the explanation from wiktionary.org, the word “eyewear” can be used to describe a vision aid or similar device worn over the eyes, such as eyeglasses, contact lenses or protective goggles. In this sense, eyewear is a broad concept. Even within each type, there are various categories. For instance, there are basically prescription eyeglasses and non-prescription spectacles. This approach to classification is simply based on eyeglass lenses which may be made of power of not. In fact, sunglasses in different types also fall into the category of eyeglasses. Even if they can be quite different in style, there are actually no significant differences in their designs. When it comes to contact lenses, there are similarly two groups. Contacts lenses incorporated with any powers are called prescription contacts which are used to correct refractive errors. In most people’s mind, protective goggles are simply used to prevent the precious eyes from being injured. But the truth is that it is not all function of protective goggles. In accordance with the aforementioned explanation of eyewear, prescription eyewear as a generic concept can be referred to prescription eyeglasses, prescription contact lenses or even prescription goggles.
First of all, prescription eyeglasses are the most widely known type of prescription eyewear. Until now, eyeglasses with powers are still the mainstream in the realm of vision correction options. Even if many eye specialists are claiming that modern contact lenses as well as laser eye procedures are gaining maturity and popularity, not all individuals are “compatible” with these two solutions to visual refractive errors. The first example can be given to severe dry eye, which will preclude the selection of contact lenses in most cases. As laser eye surgeries such as LASIK are attracting many patients, they are still not suitable for children and those with only slight visual problems. Prescription eyeglasses have remained as the commonest choice because of the fundamental reason that they can fit everyone. They will never cause serious consequences except for potential eye injuries during active sports that involve much contact. Within the eyeglass realm, prescription eyewear can also mean prescription sunglasses. These seldom seen spectacles are actually multi-functional. Being outside, they can both help the wearers block bright sunlight and provide necessary vision correction. In addition, there are even reading sunglasses and bifocal sunglasses.
As mentioned before, prescription eyewear can also be corrective contact lenses, which are the second popular option of vision correction. Compared to prescription glasses, they are convenient and lightweight. For people involving dangerous occupations, they may need another type of prescription eyewear named prescription goggles.