If you find yourself switching between different pairs of glasses to read, use a computer and see clearly in the distance, varifocal glasses could offer a more convenient solution.
Varifocal lenses combine several prescriptions within a single pair of glasses, allowing you to see clearly at different distances without visible lines across the lenses. They can be particularly useful as our eyesight naturally changes with age.
But how do varifocal glasses work, and are they suitable for everyone? Here, we explain what you need to know before choosing your next pair.
What Are Varifocal Glasses?
Varifocal glasses use specially designed lenses that provide a gradual transition between different viewing distances.
Unlike single-vision lenses, which have one prescription throughout the lens, varifocals typically provide three main areas of vision:
- Distance vision towards the top of the lens, for activities such as driving or watching television.
- Intermediate vision through the middle, which can be useful for computer screens and other tasks at arm’s length.
- Near vision towards the bottom of the lens, for reading and close-up tasks.
The transition between these areas is gradual, meaning there are no visible dividing lines on the lenses.
Why Might I Need Varifocal Glasses?
As we get older, the natural lens inside the eye gradually becomes less flexible. This can make it harder to focus clearly on objects close to us.
This age-related change is known as presbyopia and commonly becomes noticeable from around the age of 40 onwards.
You might notice that you:
- Hold books or your phone further away to read clearly.
- Find small print increasingly difficult to see.
- Need more light when reading.
- Experience tired eyes when doing close-up work.
- Remove your distance glasses to read.
If you’re experiencing changes like these, an eye examination can establish whether your prescription has changed and whether varifocal lenses could be appropriate for you.
What Are the Benefits of Varifocal Glasses?
For many people, the biggest advantage is convenience.
Rather than carrying separate glasses for reading and distance vision, varifocal glasses allow you to move naturally between different viewing distances with one pair.
They also don’t have the visible dividing line associated with traditional bifocal lenses, giving them the appearance of ordinary prescription glasses.
A well-fitted pair can be useful throughout the day, whether you’re driving, shopping, working at a computer, reading a menu or checking your phone.
Varifocals vs Bifocals: What’s the Difference?
Bifocal lenses contain two distinct prescription areas, usually one for distance vision and another for reading. A visible line separates the two sections.
Varifocal lenses work differently. The prescription changes progressively from the top to the bottom of the lens, providing distance, intermediate and near vision.
The intermediate area can be particularly important in modern life. Activities such as working on a computer, viewing a dashboard or looking across a kitchen worktop often fall between traditional reading and distance ranges.
Are All Varifocal Lenses the Same?
No. There can be considerable differences between varifocal lens designs.
Modern lenses can be tailored according to your prescription, frame choice, measurements and visual requirements. More advanced designs may provide wider areas of clear vision and smoother transitions between viewing distances.
This is why choosing varifocals isn’t simply a matter of selecting a lens prescription. Accurate measurements, the position of your chosen frame and understanding how you’ll use your glasses are all important.
At Bill Opticians, we take the time to discuss your lifestyle and visual needs before recommending the most appropriate lens options.
Do Varifocal Glasses Take Time to Get Used To?
There can be an adjustment period when you first start wearing varifocals, particularly if you’ve never worn them before.
Because different parts of the lens are designed for different viewing distances, you may initially need to become accustomed to moving your head and eyes slightly differently.
For example, you’ll generally look through the upper part of the lens for distance vision and lower your eyes towards the bottom when reading.
Many people adapt quickly, although everyone’s experience is different. An accurate prescription, careful measurements and correctly fitted frames can all contribute to comfortable vision.
Our team will also explain how to use your new lenses and make sure your glasses are sitting correctly when you collect them.
Can You Drive in Varifocal Glasses?
For people who require vision correction for both distance and near tasks, varifocals can be a practical choice for driving.
The distance portion of the lens provides the vision needed to look at the road ahead, while other areas can help with viewing the dashboard and controls.
Your suitability for driving in any prescription glasses depends on your individual eyesight and prescription, so this should be discussed with your optometrist.
Can I Use Varifocal Glasses for Computer Work?
Yes, although the best solution depends on how much time you spend using screens and your working environment.
The intermediate section of a varifocal lens can be used for viewing a computer screen. However, someone who spends much of their working day at a desk may benefit from lenses specifically designed for occupational or office use.
During your consultation, it’s helpful to tell us about your typical working day, including how many screens you use and approximately how far they are from you. This allows us to recommend lenses based on how you actually use your vision.
Choosing Frames for Varifocal Glasses
Your choice of frame matters too.
Varifocal lenses need sufficient space to accommodate the progression between distance, intermediate and near vision. Although modern lens technology means varifocals can work with many different frame styles, some combinations may be better suited to your prescription than others.
Our dispensing team can help you choose a frame that looks good, fits comfortably and works well with your recommended lenses.
Are Varifocal Glasses Right for Me?
Varifocals can be an excellent choice if you need different prescriptions for near and distance vision and would prefer the convenience of one pair of everyday glasses.
However, there isn’t one lens that’s right for everybody.
Your prescription, lifestyle, occupation, hobbies and previous experience with glasses can all influence which lens design will work best for you.
That’s why we recommend starting with a comprehensive eye examination and discussing your individual requirements with an experienced optometrist and dispensing team.
Find the Right Varifocal Glasses with Bill Opticians
At Bill Opticians, we believe choosing new glasses should be about more than simply finding the right prescription. Your lenses need to work for your everyday life, while your frames should feel comfortable and suit you.
As independent opticians, we can take the time to understand how you use your vision and recommend varifocal glasses suited to your individual needs.
If you’ve noticed your near vision changing, you’re constantly swapping between pairs of glasses, or you’d simply like to explore your options, our team will be happy to help.
Book an eye examination at your nearest Bill Opticians practice or visit us to discuss whether varifocal glasses could be right for you.
