My Personal Journey with Eye Prescription and Eyewear Choices

I have been wearing eyeglasses since I was 12 years old, and now at the ripe age of 64, my eye prescription stands at 5.0 diopter for both eyes. While I can read without my glasses, my vision starts to blur beyond a distance of 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm). Wearing glasses is a lifelong habit for me, and while some might think I could rely on field glasses due to my decent eyesight, I find that my vision is still not clear enough for extensive field use.

Family History and Eye Sight

Interesting to note, good eyesight does run in myfamily. Even at the age of 52, I didn't need reading glasses, and I continued to rely only on my glasses for driving and close-up reading for a while longer. However, at 52, I began to notice that I could no longer read small print without my reading glasses.

Current Eyewear Prescription and Lenses

My current eye prescription includes a sphere of -5.75 and astigmatism around -1.75 x 180. With my astigmatism, I have opted for high index lenses at 1.74. The aesthetics of my eyeglass lenses are a significant factor for me, and I refuse to wear thick lenses. I have considered 1.67 index lenses, but I believe the 1.74 lenses look better to me. Thin lenses vs. better appearance means a higher price tag.

Recently, I purchased new eyeglasses with a presbyopic prescription. It was a financial investment, but the Essilor Varilux X lenses with Transitions 7 gray and sapphire UV coating made the whole purchase worthwhile. The lenses provided a distortion-free vision, and I bought three different stylish lenses to suit various occasions. Despite wearing glasses infrequently (being a longtime contact lens user), I am always prepared with multifocal RGP lenses for everyday use, and multifocal soft lenses for sports.

Multifocal Contact Lenses

Multifocal RGP and soft lenses have become my go-to choice for varied activities. While multifocal RGP lenses are the most expensive, they are the best option for my active lifestyle, as I don't want to risk losing a lens during sports. The visual sharpness provided by these lenses is unmatched, and they allow me to enjoy sharp vision at all distances.

My journey with eyewear has been a mix of practical considerations and personal preferences. Whether it's reading, driving, or playing sports, I have found the right solutions that suit my lifestyle and vision needs. Here are some tips and insights for those dealing with similar challenges:

Tips for Choosing Eyewear

Comfort and Appearance: Prioritize comfort and appearance over economical options. Multifocal Options: Explore multifocal lenses that offer clear vision at all distances. Regular Checks: Schedule regular eye check-ups to ensure your prescriptions remain accurate and up-to-date. Multiple Pairs: Consider having multiple pairs for different activities or occasions.

Discovering the right set of eyeglasses or contact lenses can transform your overall vision experience, making your life easier and more enjoyable. Whether you have a strong prescription or wear glasses infrequently, finding the right solution can make a significant difference.

Conclusion

My experiences with eye prescriptions and eyewear choices have been a journey of self-discovery and adaptation. While I frequently switch between glasses and multifocal contact lenses, the quest for the perfect vision is always ongoing. By understanding my needs and being open to different solutions, I have managed to navigate the challenges of aging eyes. If you're looking for guidance on how to find the right eyewear for your needs, I hope this article provides some valuable insights.