Earlier, for both distance and close-up vision correction, it was a necessity to carry two pairs of glasses – one for close-up tasks and one for distance tasks. Switching them every now and then was a hassle.
Bifocal glasses solved this issue by helping users see both near and distant objects clearly. These glasses were then refined, leading to the development of varifocal glasses around the mid-20th century. They allowed users to see a wider range of distances, whether used for reading, working or driving.
In this article, you will get to learn more about varifocal spectacles, how they work to correct vision and varifocal glasses benefits.
What are varifocal glasses and how do they work?
Varifocal glasses, also known as progressive or multifocal glasses, allow users to clearly see objects at near, intermediate and far distances. They offer a wide field of vision with smooth visual transition, making them ideal for individuals who need to switch between distances all day. Unlike bifocals, varifocals don’t have visible lines that separate different distances, making them similar in appearance to single-vision frames.
Varifocal lenses feature three different visual zones:
- Distance: The top or upper part of the varifocal lens helps with clear long-distance vision.
- Intermediate: The middle part of the lens, connecting the distance and reading areas via a corridor, helps with clear mid-range vision.
- Near or reading: The lower or bottom part of the varifocal lens helps with clear close-up vision.
Varifocal glasses benefits
Varifocal eyeglasses provide you with three types of vision correction in a single pair – nearsightedness, intermediate and farsightedness. This means you don’t have to buy two separate pairs, which in turn saves you money. Furthermore, these glasses save you from the hassle of carrying and switching between multiple pairs.
Varifocal spectacles also help with presbyopia (age-related eye condition affecting people over 40) and its symptoms, such as blurry vision, eye strain and headaches.
Who needs varifocal glasses?
Varifocal frames are generally only prescribed to individuals over 40 years old with presbyopia. This eye condition is a normal part of ageing, which makes it difficult to read or focus on nearby objects. If you fall into this age group, get an eye test to see if you have presbyopia.
Varifocal frames are also for people who have multiple prescriptions for reading, distance and the area in between. People who only require distance and reading vision correction can also opt for bifocal spectacles.
Varifocals can also help with certain hobbies and interests, like fly fishing, that require clear vision at a specific distance, as these glasses can be customised with wider focus areas.
Adapting to varifocal glasses
Many people adjust quickly, while some take a longer time to adjust. It can take anything from a few days to a few weeks for your brain to adjust to them. Some people might also be a bit dizzy when moving quickly between different viewing areas. Varifocals with wider fields of view and less peripheral distortion are easier to get used to.
The best way to adapt to varifocal frames is to wear them consistently, even if they feel strange, uncomfortable or a bit blurry at first. Try not to remove them or switch back to your old eyeglasses.
Reading a book can help you get used to different distances and depths. When reading with varifocals, you might need to reposition your head differently compared to regular reading spectacles. Just keep your chin up and tip your nose towards the book to read clearly through the bottom portion of the lens and reduce eye strain.
Varifocals are a valuable option if you have multiple prescriptions or presbyopia. Choose from a wide range of varifocal eyeglasses for men and women on Feel Good Contacts at affordable prices. Enjoy the freedom of seamless vision without sacrificing your style.
