Published 07 Sep 2022
Which lenses suit your needs?
Did you know there are different types of lenses available to suit different lifestyles? In this article we outline the various options available to you.
Single vision lenses
Single vision lenses contain one prescription throughout the entire lens – best for visual tasks at one specific distance. An example of this is when wearing readers for near tasks, or when wearing a specific pair of glasses for driving.
Anti-fatigue lenses
Fast becoming the lens of choice for children, teenagers and young adults, anti-fatigue lenses look and feel like single vision lenses, except they include a near work ‘booster’ at the bottom of the lens. This helps cater for the overwhelming increase in screen time and mobile use.
Bifocals
Bifocals allow for visual clarity at two separate working distances. The top of the lens is typically prescribed for long distance (i.e., television and driving) and includes a defined reading section at the bottom of the lens and for near work. Recognizably, these lenses show a faint line or segment at the bottom of the lens that can be seen with the naked eye. Bifocals are useful for patients that experience issues with balance or vertigo.
Desk lenses
Desk lenses cater for patients who work predominantly at a desk or in an office environment. They focus mainly on clear vision for intermediate distance (i.e., computer screens), and incorporate an added reading boost as the eye travels down the lens for closer work that might also be required such as using your mobile or for paperwork.
Multifocals
Multifocals are also known as progressive lenses. These are designed as a graduated lens to allow visual clarity at long distance, intermediate and near. These look like single vision lenses to the naked eye, unlike bifocals which have a faint line between the separate prescription. The lenses are a great solution for patients with multiple visual demands throughout the day, and are may also be seen as more visually appealing when compared with bifocals.
Contact lenses
Sometimes glasses aren’t appropriate dependent on a patient’s lifestyle. Contact lenses are a fantastic option, particularly for certain sports and professions, and more recently with the introduction of masks into our day-to-day living. Wearing glasses can often be frustrating for individuals whilst also wearing a mask. There are a number of contact lenses available which range from occasional to a more permanent wear and can range from daily, fortnightly, monthly and even longer-term use in some patients. These come in both single vision and multifocal options.
With several lens options available to suit your needs, our Optometrists at GMHBA Eye Care can help determine which prescription lenses or contact lenses will best suit your lifestyle. Contact your nearest GMHBA Eye Care practice or book an appointment online so we can help find the best solution for you.
