How to Choose the Right Eyeglasses for Seniors?

Senior citizens face a drastic change in their vision- that’s why focusing on proper eye care is crucial. By seeking professional help quite frequently, one can choose to keep their eye health in check. ‘Precaution is better than cure’- the truth behind this statement can’t be overlooked at all! By detecting the warning signs, seniors can always take a step toward improving their quality of life.

It’s true that some eye concerns don’t come with early symptoms. They develop in a painless manner and get worse when the condition reaches an advanced stage. Through regular eye examinations and lifestyle choices, the elderly age group can pamper their vision effortlessly. In this blog, we will discuss some of the tips that are related to choosing the right eyeglasses for seniors. Let’s get started without any further delay.

What Are the Eye-Related Problems in Old Age?

Before discussing the tips, let’s take a moment to learn about some of the eye-related problems in old age. Keep reading for more insights:

• Presbyopia

  After a certain point in time, individuals face problems while focusing on close objects. Referred to as presbyopia, this condition is more prone during the 40s. Some of the symptoms of presbyopia are:

  • Eye strain
  • Headaches
  • Difficulties in reading small words and sentences

The best way to combat presbyopia is to invest in contact lenses or eyeglasses. Contact an optometrist and they will guide you through thick and thin.

• Cataracts

  Cataracts lead to cloud vision- this eye concern is associated with ageing. Some of the symptoms of cataract include -:

  • Dim, cloudy or blurry vision
  • Facing problems while seeing in dim light or at night times
  • Double vision
  • Sensitivity to glare and light
  • Halos around light
  • Troubles while spotting differences between greens and blues

Keep cataracts at bay by changing your contact lens or eyeglass prescription. When halos are considered, you can rely on tinted lenses and of course, sunglasses. On the other hand, if you or any other senior citizen is exposed to cataracts, it's better to opt for cataract surgery.

• Dry Eyes

  Do you know tears are actually good for your eye health? They keep your eyes moistened, lower the risk of infection and keep your cornea (eye surface) absolutely clear and smooth. But, there are times when eyes don’t release good quality tears- that boosts the chance of developing dry eyes. The symptoms are:

  • Gritty, scratchy and irritated feeling
  • Burning
  • Blurred vision
  • Extra watering

Keep cataracts at bay by changing your contact lens or eyeglass prescription. When halos are considered, you can rely on tinted lenses and of course, sunglasses. On the other hand, if you or any other senior citizen is exposed to cataracts, it's better to opt for cataract surgery.

• Macular Degeneration

  Age-related macular degeneration takes place when the macula (part of your retina) is damaged. You can end up losing your central vision and missing out on fine details. The symptoms are:

  • Visual distortions
  • Reduced central vision
  • Blurry vision
  • Needing brighter light while doing close-up work or reading a book
  • Having problems in recognising faces

If you witness changes like blind spots or distortions in the central vision, make sure to see your doctor. Address these concerns before they are too late.

• Glaucoma

  Glaucoma causes damage to the optic nerve- they don’t come with warning signs. The symptoms of glaucoma are:

  • Severe headache
  • Vomiting or nausea
  • Severe eye pain
  • Eye redness
  • Blurred vision
  • Halos around lights

See an eye doctor as soon as you experience these symptoms. Book an appointment and look for solutions to fix these issues.

Tips to Choose the Perfect Eyeglasses

Now, it’s time to focus on the tips to choose the perfect stylish glasses for men and women. Read on:

Opt for a Comprehensive Eye Examination

The importance of a comprehensive eye examination can’t be framed into quite a few words- seniors should always make time for these mandatory sessions. Through this, the elderly group will get the opportunity to learn their exact prescription strength. Thanks to these regular eye examinations, addressing eye health issues and ensuring accurate prescriptions is easier now.

Frame Design and Material

The frame design and materials matter because they are related to providing maximised comfort. Lightweight, durable and hypoallergenic- seniors often look for these factors. Since they need to don their eyeglasses almost every minute, ensuring top-notch comfort is extremely important.

Lens Options

Lenses are tailor-made- they cater to the specific needs and requirements of the glass wearer. Let’s check out the options to consider:

• Bifocal Lenses: Bifocal Lenses: With bifocal lenses, you can look at near and distant vision. Individuals with presbyopia can opt for eyeglasses with bifocal lenses. Want to know the difference between varifocals and bifocals? Read our latest blog!
• Progressive Lenses: Also referred to as no-line bifocals, progressive lenses offer extremely smooth transitions between far, near and intermediate vision zones. Say yes to a visually pleasing appearance by getting your hands on progressives.
• Transition Lenses: Transition Lenses: Photochromic lenses or transition lenses adjust themselves to different light conditions. If you move a lot between outdoor and indoor environments, these transition lenses will eliminate the need for two frames for men and women.
• Anti-Reflective Coating: Reduce the effect of glare by choosing lenses with anti-reflective coating. Enjoy proper clarity and fix your vision seamlessly.

Lens Enhancements

Apart from the lens options mentioned above, there are other enhancements that you can take into your consideration:

• Blue Light Filtering: Digital screens emit blue light- they are quite harmful to our eyes. This is where the blue light-blocking glasses swoop in. They filter out the blue light and improve visual comfort and reduce eye strain.
• UV Protection: UV rays can expose you to serious health issues. UV protection lenses are everything you need.
• Scratch-Related Coatings: Mishandling of eyeglasses and accidental drops lead to scratches on the glasses. Anti-scratch coatings keep these problems at bay.

Frame Fit and Style

The style and fit of the glasses you are looking for matter a lot. Check out the factors right away:

• Face Shape: Face Shape: You need to select glasses that suit well with your face shape. For instance, people with round-shaped faces can opt for square or rectangular glasses. On the other hand, oval-shaped faces look well with ca-eye, pilots, square glasses etc. For comprehensive insight on the best glasses for your face shape, check out our face shape guide!
• Bridge Fit: In order to ensure top-notch comfortability, you need to look for glasses with the perfect bridge fit. Like this, the eyeglasses won’t slide down from your face.
• Frame Size: The size of the frame should accentuate your facial features. Choose eyeglasses that bestow you with a balanced look.

Get in Touch with an Optician

Last, but not least, make sure to consult with an optician. They are the best guidance providers you can have faith in. At Specscart, we offer free eye tests -book an online appointment while rolling in your comfort zone.

The process of choosing the perfect eyeglasses doesn't have to be overwhelming at all. Keep these tips in mind and you can get your pairs delivered right at your doorstep. Shop with us- we are just a few clicks away.

References:

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/glaucoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20372839
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-macular-degeneration/symptoms-causes/syc-20350375
• https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration
• https://www.ucihealth.org/blog/2018/03/aging-eye
• https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-health-for-life/senior-vision?sso=y
• https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/senior-years
• https://www.centreforsight.net/blog/glasses-for-old-age-why-do-senior-citizens-need-it/
• https://www.eye7.in/eye-care-in-elderly/
• https://www.lensmartonline.com/blog/eyeglass-guide/details/how-to-choose-the-right-eyeglasses-for-seniors/