Why Do People Need Reading Glasses? [Expert's Guide]

Why Do People Need Reading Glasses?

As we age, the structures of our eyes change over time. Most people start needing reading glasses at some point to compensate for lost flexibility in and around their eyes. But when will you need them? Everyone is different, but most patients get their first pair sometime between the ages of 41-60.

The Effects of Aging on Your Eyes

Beginning in your 40s, the internal lenses in your eyes start to lose flexibility. This can cause you to struggle more with focusing on closer objects like small prints or fine details. This effect increases over time and may lead to a presbyopia diagnosis requiring reading glasses.

Risk Factors for Presbyopia

Certain risk factors can increase your chances of early-onset presbyopia such as having chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, a family history of macular degeneration or glaucoma, spending a lot of time reading, working in jobs that expose you to eye hazards or taking certain medications related to arthritis, anxiety/depression, high cholesterol, and thyroid conditions.

How To Know When You Need Reading Glasses

If you have worsening presbyopia some common signs and symptoms can let you know that it’s time for reading glasses such as struggling with smaller print, especially under dim light, or finding yourself holding books farther away just so they are legible.

Does Everyone Need Reading Glasses Eventually?

Vision and eye health are highly individualized experiences throughout one's life. Still, all adults who reach a certain age will experience a near-vision loss due to aging called Presbyopia.

Are There Alternatives To Reading Glasses?

Reading glasses may not be everyone's go-to solution because they don't like how they look/feel or find it difficult to switch between tasks while wearing them; thus, alternative options include contact lenses/surgical procedures depending on medical history/eye health.

Signs You Might Need Reading Glasses

Some primary signs indicating whether you might need prescription glasses to include:

• Squinting while trying to focus on words/characters/packaging labels
• Difficulty focusing while using electronic devices leading to enlarging font sizes
• Experiencing headaches/fatigue after extended periods spent reading
• Wanting to move forward/backward electronics screens to improve comfort during prolonged usage
• Holding magazines/electronics back from oneself so that they appear clearer