Finding Eyeglasses for Seniors

Vision loss is a common concern among senior citizens, especially those who require the daily use of glasses, contacts or other vision aids. As a person ages, the differences in how they see become more apparent. That is why yearly eye exams are important, more so anytime there is a change in one’s vision.

Common Age-Related Vision Concerns 

While it’s important for seniors to receive annual eye exams, there are other concerns to watch for that may require a change in eyeglass prescription:

• Presbyopia: This vision condition is caused by a loss of flexibility in the crystalline lens in the eye. It’s a natural part of the aging process and requires the use of reading glasses.

• Myopia: Also known as nearsightedness, this condition is where close objects are seen clearer than those farther away. This is caused by an eyeball that is too long or if the cornea has too much curvature.

• Hyperopia: Commonly called farsightedness, this vision condition is where distant objects are clearer than those up close. Hyperopia is caused by an eyeball that is too short or a cornea that has too little of a curvature.

• Astigmatism: This common eye condition is due the irregular shape of the cornea, the curvature of the lens inside the eye or the cover of the eye. It typically occurs with other vision conditions such as myopia or hyperopia.

There are other age-related vision problems facing seniors, such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and ocular hypertension. However, eyeglasses or contacts won’t correct these issues. More serious problems require immediate attention from an ophthalmologist.

Senior Eye Exams and Eyewear 

Eye exams for seniors aren’t much different from those given to younger adults except more attention is given to possible age-related conditions. Vision and glaucoma tests are typically given, and the eyes are checked for conditions such as age-related macular degeneration or retinal detachment.

Seniors can choose from eyeglasses or contact lenses for their prescription needs. For eyeglasses, they can select plastic, metal frames, or a combination of the two. They come with various kinds of lenses:

• Corrective: These are both distant and near vision, as well as multi-focal, bifocal, trifocal, progressive and no-line lenses.

• UV light protective: A special coating that blocks the sun’s invisible UV rays.

• Antireflective: A special coating that prevents daytime glare.

• Tinted: Lenses that darken in the daylight.

• Scratch resistant: Lenses that won’t scratch easily when dropped.

For those seniors who do not like to wear glasses, contact lenses are another option. Multi-focal contact lenses are a popular option for those who need a prescription for reading, but can clearly at a distance. Contact lenses are also an option for those with small cataracts. These special lenses can treat the cataracts and be multi-focal, all while eliminating the need for glasses.

Purchasing Eyewear 

There are two ways to go about purchasing glasses or contacts. Optical centers in department stores or wholesale clubs are popular, as are those in private opticians’ offices.

There is also the ever-growing popularity of buying glasses and contacts online. This trend offers designer frames and contacts at reduced prices, making it more affordable for seniors on limited budgets to purchase the eyewear they need.