According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), presbyopia is a vision condition that typically becomes evident in the early to mid-40s, when reading glasses commonly become necessary. Presbyopia is one of several eye conditions that may benefit from the use of reading glasses.
Presbyopia
The common indicators of presbyopia include blurry vision at your normal reading distance, so you begin to hold reading materials at arm's length in an effort to regain focus. You may also experience headaches and eye fatigue after reading or when doing close work. The effects of presbyopia do not remain stagnant but continue to gradually change the ability of the crystalline lens. Therefore you will periodically require adjustments in your eyewear in order to preserve clear vision.
Hyperopia
Another eye condition that typically causes blurry near vision and is sometimes mistaken for presbyopia is called hyperopia or farsightedness. According to the Mayo Clinic, farsightedness tends to be hereditary. While reading glasses may help bring printed words and closeup objects into clear view, the Mayo Clinic says it's important for people with hyeropia to have regular exams and wear prescription corrective lenses.
Myopia
According to the International Myopia Prevention Association, myopia, or nearsightedness, is not inherited but is caused by excessive reading and other close work.The IMPA says myopia can be prevented by the use of reading glasses. Myopia occurs over time as the muscle responsible for focusing locks into a position of near focus. This eventually leads to nearsightedness. The IMPA says reading glasses are appropriate for people who spend a lot of time focusing on reading materials.
Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration is a persistent eye disease that increases the blurriness of printed words. The condition may be improved by the use of reading glasses. The Mayo Clinic says the weakening of sight takes place in the macula, which is responsible for central vision. Clear central vision is needed not only for reading, but for work that requires detail, such as threading a needle.
Full vs. Part Lens Reading Glasses
Full lens reading glasses are usually appropriate for people who spend a lot of time focusing on items close up and/or experience blurriness when reading but otherwise have no vision improvement requirements. In such cases, faraway objects will look blurry through reading glasses.
In comparison, half-eye reading glasses or bifocals allow you to wear the glasses for reading while maintaining focus on faraway items. Bifocals offer two pairs of lenses that are designed for people who have both distance and close up vision problems.
