Good eyesight is so important in every aspect of our lives. If you’ve always had great vision, it can be surprising to learn that, after the age of 40, it’s quite normal for our eyes to become weaker.
Maybe you’ve started to notice that far away objects, such as road signs, are harder to decipher, or that you need to hold your book further away when you read. If yes, it’s time to consider how you’re going to select the right solution for you.
There’s no need to panic about this slow and natural process. The first step, of course, is to get an eye exam to ensure there are no underlying health problems.
In this article, we're taking a look at the pros and cons of three solutions.
Glasses
Trying to read without appropriate vision correction can lead to recurring and persistent headaches, as well as wrinkles on the forehead and under the eyes. Reading glasses are a cost-effective and convenient solution, especially if you’re a computer user.
If you’re myopic and need better distance vision, corrective lenses are available in a whole range of finishes: scratch–resistant, tinted, or varifocals. The only downside is that wearing glasses for some sports isn’t practical (eg swimming, boxing).
These days there are thousands of stylish options to choose from, for every face shape. If you have an oval or long face, choose round reading glasses. A round or heart-shaped face? Go for rectangular frames.
In short, glasses are a cost-effective, easy-to-wear solution. However, they may not be so convenient for certain outdoor activities.
Contact Lenses
If you're myopic or have a high or asymmetrical prescription, contact lenses may be the choice for you. They’re the obvious solution if you think you look better without glasses. They also give the wearer a wider field of vision, which is better for driving, and they’re much more practical if you play sports.
However, there are some downsides. They need to be expertly fitted, and you’ll have to get used to wearing them. Correct hygiene is essential, and you’ll need to be patient in handling them. Some people find they become uncomfortable after being worn for a time. If grit or dirt gets into your eye, they can be painful. Being small, they’re easily lost and need to be replaced regularly as they deteriorate over time.
Lasik
Lasik surgery is the most expensive option, but it can also be a life-changing decision as you'll get the vision you want, 24/7. If you use Lasik to correct myopia, you still won't be immune from age-related vision deterioration, and you may require glasses for reading, but depending on your age and lifestyle, it can be the ultimate solution for several years.
Downsides? The surgery is somewhat uncomfortable, and there is the risk of a deterioration in night vision. While some people balk at the costs, if you compare it with what you’ll spend on glasses or contacts over, say, 10 years, it can be a wise investment.