Reading is a hobby that has persisted over the centuries, and all the best writers are also readers. In his book, On Writing, Stephen King suggests that a good writer should read for two hours a day to help drive them in their quest to create a masterpiece. People have listened - reading statistics show that, on average, 75% of US adults read at least one book in the last year. For these bookworms who continue to read voraciously, enjoying finely crafted plots and excellent storytelling, vision care is undoubtedly an essential factor in their pursuit of great reads.
If you’re in your 40s and see yourself holding reading materials further away to read them, it may be a sign you need reading glasses. To help you pick the best kind, this article will serve as a comprehensive guide to choosing reading glasses:
Determine whether you need reading glasses or prescription lenses
People struggle with reading up close when they get older. This condition is called presbyopia, which occurs when the natural crystalline lens in your eyes loses its elasticity with age, making it challenging to see fine print or objects up close. Reading glasses magnify a person’s vision, so it helps you focus better. However, magnification isn't enough if you have a refractive eye problem like myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism — as most bookworms tend to have — you will need prescription lenses to correct vision errors. If you plan to use your prescription glasses to correct distance and read, it may be worth investing in progressive lenses instead. Models like those from Overnight Glasses integrate seamless transitions across near, intermediate, and distance vision. Doctors highly recommend this kind of eyeglasses to reduce eye strain.
Find frames that fit your face
There’s nothing worse than reading but having uncomfortable glasses. Imagine going through a page-turner with your glasses slipping off your nose bridge or wearing bulky frames that limit your sphere of vision. For avid bookworms, it’s essential to choose reading glasses that fit well and look great. Eyebuydirect offers reading eyeglasses from top designers in different shapes, including universally flattering rectangles, chic-cat eyes, and sophisticated semi-rimless silhouettes. It’s best to get lightweight frames for extended reading, like Oakley’s Socket 5.5. These are made of metal rims that are strong and flexible — making them a durable option to use on the go. Of course, it’s best to figure out your face shape to see which styles suit you. Online retailers offer virtual try-on services, so you can sample as many frames as you like from the comfort of your home.
Consider the right lens power
Reading eyeglasses’ magnification is measured in diopters that increase in increments of +0.25 D, with pairs ranging from +1.00D to +3.50 D. The higher the number, the stronger the powers of the lenses, with high levels best suited for individuals with significant farsightedness. While you can do some trial and error when trying non-prescription reading glasses, it’s more accurate to consult an eye care specialist to find the right lens power. For regular readers, it’s better to choose stronger glasses to magnify words clearly. It would also be wise to look into different lens coatings, like ultraviolet or blue-violet protection if you read more often on a tablet or an e-reader.
Spend more to make your glasses last If you like your current pair of reading glasses, invest in them so they last much longer. One option is to look for eyewear with protective coatings. Anti-scratch coatings are worth an investment as they ensure your reading isn’t interrupted by random marks. It’s also good to get anti-reflective coatings if you’re struggling with glare from overhead lighting. Spending extra time caring for your glasses will allow you to use them well into the future. Ensure you avoid wiping your glasses with anything except a microfiber cloth to remove smudge marks and dust. If you need to wash your eyewear, use a tiny amount of dishwashing liquid to clean them. Although you don’t need a prescription to buy reading glasses, being careful with your pair selection is worth it. Considering factors like the frames, lens power, and eyewear care, you can ensure your reading experience is enjoyable.