Can I wear reading glasses while wearing contact lenses?

Reading glasses can be worn with contact lenses for near tasks. This is an option you can consult with your optometrist about. Multifocal contact lenses are another option that will help correct for both the distance and near prescriptions, functioning like multifocal glasses, such as progressives. Most people who encounter this situation will be those experiencing symptoms of presbyopia. This is a visual condition in which your eyes gradually lose the ability to focus on objects at near distances. Presbyopia is an age‑related condition, usually presenting around the age of 40. Contact lenses are generally worn throughout the day in order to correct distance vision and reading glasses can be worn over the top when focusing on near tasks. The good thing about this is that it saves you from carrying two pairs of glasses around with you for different viewing distances. If you’re experiencing any changes in your vision, make sure to see an optometrist as soon as you can so they can find the best options to suit your vision.

Presbyopia | Specsavers CA

What is presbyopia?

As you get older, the crystalline lens in the eye becomes thicker and less flexible. This results in a visual condition called presbyopia, which makes focusing on objects up close increasingly difficult over time. Presbyopia generally begins around the age of 40 and progresses with age.

Symptoms

Difficulty seeing small print and focusing on close tasks, like reading and sewing
Vision is blurred at a normal reading distance
Holding things at arm’s length in order to see more clearly
Eye strain
Headaches

Common causes

The naturally flexible, crystalline lens of the eye allows us to see clearly up close and far away. But as we get older – from around the age of 40 – this lens naturally starts to lose its elasticity, which affects your ability to focus.

Even if you have never needed glasses, you may find that you’ll need reading glasses at some point in life.

Treatment

There are multiple methods of treating presbyopia. Reading glasses act like magnifying lenses that allow you to focus when performing nearby tasks, like reading or sewing. Bifocals and multifocal lenses are other types of glasses designed to correct for both your distance and near vision.

Multifocal contact lenses are another option that will help correct for both the distance and near prescriptions.

Lastly, refractive surgery is another method of treating presbyopia. You’ll need to discuss this option with your optometrist to see if you’d be a good candidate for this procedure, then you’ll be referred to an ophthalmologist.

Next steps

We want to help you see clearly and keep your eyes healthy for as long as possible. If your optometrist detects any signs of an eye condition during your comprehensive eye exam, they will determine an appropriate management plan that suits your needs.

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Reviewed by Dr. Richard Cowles

Dr. Richard Cowles is a Doctor of Optometry in Alberta, practicing at Sherwood Park Mall. He is a member of the Alberta College of Optometrists and is the current Past President of the Alberta Association of Optometrists. Dr. Cowles is passionate about helping patients to solve their visual concerns.

Noticed a change in your eyesight?

If you have any concerns about your eye health, contact or visit your local optometrist immediately – even if you do not have an appointment.