Prescription Eyeglasses Combine Fashion With Function

It's not a stereotype - most older people really do need prescription eyeglasses. Our vision changes as we age, because the eye's lens and its muscles used for focusing become less flexible. The condition is called presbyopia.

People age 40 and older often notice that print begins to blur when they're reading. That's a clear sign of presbyopia, even if a person hasn't worn glasses before. If you have worn eyeglasses before age 40, signs of presbyopia also mean that single-vision lenses won't work for you anymore.

Those who wear prescription eyeglasses already know that designers such as Calvin Klein, Sean John, Adrienne Vittidini, Marc Jacobs, Anne Klein and many others also produce high-fashion eyeglass frames. These well-known brands are drawing both women and men to stylish frames for their prescription eyeglasses.

* Bifocals. Their invention is attributed to America's first scientist, Benjamin Franklin. Unfortunately, in the three centuries since ol' Benjy invented them, traditional bifocals haven't changed much. They still are made with only near and far vision, with no intermediate zone. The top half of bifocals is used for distance vision and the bottom half for reading. A noticeable line separates the two lens regions.

* Trifocals. This kind of lens attempts to include all three seeing distances: near, middle and far. Trifocals are a bit more adaptable than bifocals and are usually custom made for the wearer's occupation or lifestyle.

However, plastic and metal frames haven't been dumped on the trash heap. New plastics and metals alike form the standard components of prescription eyeglasses. Hypoallergenic metals such as titanium and stainless steel are especially important for those who suffer from skin allergies to avoid a reaction known as contact dermatitis.

* Reading glasses. Essentially, reading glasses are single-vision magnifiers. Their lenses will enlarge type so that it can be seen without blurring. Reading glasses can be purchased in pharmacies or discount stores without a prescription, or an optician can prescribe reading glasses.

In addition to needing vision correction for reading, people with presbyopia who are fond of sports and recreational activities may find that they need specialized prescription eyeglasses. After all, a devoted softball player wouldn't want that horsehide to get indistinct when it comes across the plate. And every golfer needs to be able to see well in order to tee up.

First, optical stores and boutiques often have sales offering "two-for-one" or "buy-one-get-one-half-off" deals. Many wearers of prescription eyeglasses find they can purchase a wardrobe of glasses for less than a new pair of shoes.

Even though your need for prescription eyeglasses means you're getting older, you don't have to sacrifice a stylish appearance. Besides choosing the right lenses for your needs, your personal appearance and your lifestyle are the best guides to choosing the right prescription eyeglasses.

Third, prescription eyeglasses don't have to be only a medical device anymore. While some women might like to wear their silver frames with everything, that's not true, or even attractive, for everyone. No one wears the same outfit day after day, year in and year out, so why wear the same pair of eyeglasses?

Combine these eye care innovations with the wide range of fashion frame options available, and you have prescription eyeglasses that aren't merely functional, they're fun!

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