Table of Contents
Introduction
As we get older, we notice that it is becoming more difficult to see things that are nearby. This is called presbyopia. In order to help you see objects at this range more clearly, people can choose prescription eyeglasses that are multifocal. These glasses can correct your eyesight when you are looking at things that are at different distances. The most popular lenses that people wear are bifocals or progressives. Although they both do the same job, there are some differences in their design, in the way that they work, and in the way that they do the job for you.
Once you understand how they differ, you are then in a better position to make a choice that is best suited for you. Some people prefer the separate areas for near and far vision that bifocals provide, while others like the way that progressive lenses do not have the distinctly different visual areas but instead have a seamless change of the visual area of the lenses. Once you know how the different lenses work, you will be in a better position to choose the best lenses for your lifestyle so that you can see more clearly and naturally, regardless of the distance you are looking at.
What Are Bifocal Lenses?
Eyeglasses that have two separate areas to correct your eyesight for both near and far are called bifocals. Those areas are separated by a noticeable line. The top portion of the lens will let you see more clearly at a distance, while the lower portion of the lens will make it easier for you to see close objects, like when you are reading. If you have been diagnosed with presbyopia, you may decide to go with bifocals. Wearing bifocals gives you the ability to be able to see both near and far almost naturally.
Although many people are very pleased and quite comfortable wearing bifocals, others find some issues with them. For example, there is not the same seamless transition between near and far vision that progressive lens users like. Thus, they find the line separation between close and distance vision very uncomfortable. In addition, bifocals don’t have a separate zone for intermediate vision which is better for people who use a computer. Even with these downsides, bifocals remain a cost-effective choice for many people.
What Are Progressive Lenses?
Progressive lenses are lenses that provide three vision areas that have no separation lines within the one lens. This allows for a very smooth, unnoticeable shift between the three separate areas, each having its own prescription. Some users feel that they are more attractive since they don’t have the separation line between the three vision areas. The top part of the lens is generally used for seeing better at a distance, while the middle area works well if you are a computer user. The bottom area is good for reading or other close tasks like sewing.
Those who have presbyopia prefer progressive lenses because they find them more convenient, having all these visual areas located in a single pair of glasses. People find that once they become accustomed to wearing them, they feel that they are a good contemporary choice over bifocals.
How Do Bifocals and Progressives Compare Visually?
There is a definite difference in the appearance of these two types of lenses, as well as how they correct your vision. It is the obvious separation line between the different vision areas that some users find bothersome and less attractive.
On the other hand, because progressives do not have the separation line, people find that the transition between the three visual fields seems much more natural. To the onlooker, it isn’t possible to tell the difference between the separation areas so that the wearer feels less self-conscious and also feels that they appear more contemporary.
Which Option Is Easier to Adjust To?
It doesn’t take very long to adjust to either one, but there are a few small differences in adjusting to each type. Bifocal users feel that they are the easier of the two to become accustomed to because they only have the two fields of vision. That being said, the sharp change between near and far vision causes what we call an “image jump”. This happens because the things you see seem to shift quickly as your eyes are transitioning between the different parts of the lens. For some people, this feels very distracting, particularly when they are walking or going up and down stairs.
On the other hand, even though it might take a bit longer to become accustomed to wearing progressives, even with the slight change in lens strength, people find that using them seems more natural. They learn how to move their eyes and their heads to find the correct focus. Some of the issues they experience during the learning process are:
- Blurring in the periphery of the lens
- The need to adjust the position of your head when looking at a computer monitor or when reading
- For some activities, you have to learn to move your head instead of your eyes
Even though there is a short training period for learning how to use them, progressives are still known to be more useful and more comfortable if clear eyesight is needed for different distances all day long.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Each Type of Lens?
If you are in the market for glasses that will give you affordable, crisp, clear eyesight for both near and far distances, and you don’t need any correction for intermediate tasks, then bifocals can be the answer to your needs.
Progressives seem to work better for those with a very active life and who need to have clear eyesight for all visions – near, intermediate, and far. For these reasons, computer workers and digital device users are excellent candidates for progressive lenses.
How Do Cost and Insurance Coverage Compare?
Because progressives’ impressive technology is more involved due to their ability to correct for three different fields of vision, they are more expensive than bifocals. However, because they are more comfortable and convenient, people are willing to pay more for them.
On the other hand, bifocals are generally less costly and are usually covered by most people’s vision insurance. There are some insurance companies that will cover the cost of progressives, but they generally only cover a partial amount of the cost and you pay the difference. For that reason, it is always a good idea to check with the company and go over the various plans from which you can choose.
What Should You Consider When Choosing Between Bifocals and Progressive Lenses?
The decision to choose bifocals or progressives should take into account your lifestyle, the type of glasses that work best with your vision, and, of course, comfort. If you simply want glasses that correct your eyesight for near and far distances, and cost is important, then bifocals may be the way to go. On the other hand, since they don’t give you intermediate vision correction, then bifocals may not be for you if that’s what you need.
On the other hand, if you are in the market for glasses with a seamless transition between near, intermediate, and distance vision, you might want to choose progressives. Although they are more expensive and the learning curve takes a bit longer, you might want to choose them for the convenience you’ll find, as well as your lifestyle and their attractiveness. Your vision specialist can be very helpful in guiding you through the various options.
FAQs
Why Choose Golden Vision Optometry for Bifocals or Progressive Lenses?
Here at Golden Vision Optometry, we can guide you through all the choices available to be sure you are receiving high-quality lenses that are comfortable and give you the best type to correct your eyesight. If you decide to go with bifocals or progressives, our dedicated optometrists will suggest the lenses that fit best with your way of life, your work, and your own special needs.
We have a good selection of well-known brands with beautifully designed frames that you can choose from. Our specialized technology for fitting will ensure that the lenses you pick will align beautifully with your eyes. If you have never worn multifocal lenses or if you already wear them but want more from your current lenses, Golden Vision Optometry can help you see more crisply and clearly at all distances.
Reach out to Golden Vision and book an appointment for personalized advice and support tailored to your unique needs.
