Which is easier to adjust to: Standard Bifocals or Progressive Lenses?

Question

Is there a secret to adjusting to bifocals for the first time?

Answer 1

I would say if your a first time wearer both could be difficult to get used to. With bifocals you have the problem with image jump... because you go straight from distance vision to reading distance. Also you have an unattractive line. Progressives are so well made now and many people are very happy with them once they learn how to use them. Progressives are great because you get your distance, reading and intermediate length vision. Intermediate you would use when your on the computer or the dashboard in your vehicle. In bifocals you don't get that. The trick with progressives you should move your head towards what you want to look at not your eyes. If you move your eyes you will not be looking through the right part of the lens. Also when you are using stairs or walking onto a curb you need to turn your head down not your eyes... you need to keep your eyes in the distance portion of the lens so you don't miss the steps/curb and fall...Both progressives and bifocals have this problem because the reading portion is in the bottom of the lens. Many people prefer progressives :) I would talk to your local optician... they will help you choose an appropriate progressive lens for your visual needs.

Answer 2

If you've never had bifocals before and this is the first time the progressive lens is the easiest to adjust to. If you've had bifocals before and are wanting to try the progressive lens it will take some time to get adjusted to it. When using the bifocal your eyes jump from far to close up. When using the progressive, it's just like the name says, you progress down you have your far your "intermediate" than your close up. Go for the progressive lens if you've never had bifocals before

Answer 3

Standard bifocals are usually easier for people to adjust to, because they can visibly see the line for where to look for distance and reading, with the progressive lenses, there's no line, so you have to just remember where to look. Cosmetically the progressive looks better, so it'd probably be better to get that one, and just prepare for an adjustment period. Or get two seperate pairs, one for distance and one for reading.

Answer 4

standard as they will be easier to adjust to=the first day you wear them though don't go to near stairs ,as the bifocal tends to make them seem closer then they are

Answer 5

it's a little weird at first but not bad. i have progressives. they look better than the standard type and i don't think there is any difference as far as adjusting to either.