Bifocal glasses, progressive lenses, and contacts for reading

Types of bifocal reading glasses

Bifocal readers come in different styles to help with near and far vision. Here are some common types: 

• Round-Top Bifocals: The reading area is a small, semi-circular section at the bottom of the lens. This design creates a softer look and a more gradual shift between prescriptions. 

• Flat-Top (D-Segment) Bifocals: One of the most popular styles, these have a near-vision section shaped like a "D" on its side. They provide a wide reading area while keeping distance vision clear. 

• Curved-Top Bifocals: Like flat-top lenses but with a rounded upper edge for a more subtle appearance. 

• Ribbon-Segment Bifocals: These have a narrow, rectangular reading section, making it easier to see above and below the close-up area. 

• Split-Lens (Benjamin Franklin) Bifocals: Inspired by Benjamin Franklin’s original design, these lenses are made of two separate pieces—the top half for distance and the bottom half for reading—combined into a single lens. 

• Fused Bifocals: These have a built-in near-vision section made from a different type of glass, allowing for a more distinct transition between distance and close-up vision. 

Each style has benefits, depending on your vision needs and daily activities. If you want a more seamless transition between distances, progressive lenses may be a good alternative to bifocals. 

Types of progressive reading glasses

There are several types of progressive lenses to suit different needs, activities, and preferences:

• Standard Progressive Lenses: These provide a smooth transition from distance to near vision in a single lens. They are not customized to individual measurements, which may result in narrower viewing areas.
• Premium Progressive Lenses: These lenses are tailored to your dominant eye and frame choice, offering a more personalized visual experience with wider fields of vision.
• Short Corridor Progressive Lenses: These lenses are designed for smaller frames and have a more compact design, which may result in smaller viewing areas.
• Computer Progressive Lenses: Also known as "near variable focus lenses," these are ideal for those who spend extended periods on computers. They provide optimal vision for screen distance and reduce eye strain.
• Transition Progressive Lenses: These lenses automatically darken in sunlight, combining the benefits of progressive lenses with sun protection for added convenience.

Our eyecare experts are happy to discuss the different progressive lens types so you can make the right choice for your needs and lifestyle.

Types of contacts for reading

There are two types of contacts that can help focus your vision when reading:

• Mono Vision Contacts: These reading contacts have a prescription for near vision in one eye and far vision in the other. While it takes some time to adjust, the brain will signal which eye needs to take over as you alternate between distance and near viewing.
• Multifocal Contacts: This is a newer option that features multiple zones of vision in both lenses, allowing you to use both eyes at once.

Nervous about contact lenses? Arrange an appointment at your neighbourhood Pearle Vision EyeCare Centre. Our experts can help answer all your questions and measure your eyes for a comfortable fit.

Enhancing your reading glasses

Before committing to a pair of reading glasses, you’ll also want to consider adding special coatings to enhance the performance and quality of your prescription lenses. Here are some of the more popular options that can’t be found on OTC glasses:

• Anti-Glare Coating: Anti-glare reading glasses help eliminate reflections from your lenses, improving your vision when reading or staring at a digital screen.
• Scratch-Resistant Coating: This coating gives your lenses a harder surface, making them more resistant to scratches and prolonging their lifespan.
• Mirrored Coating: This coating makes the outside of the lens look like a mirror and prevents light from reflecting into the eye.