How to Rate the Strength of Non-Prescription Reading Glasses
Non-prescription reading glasses are similar to the reading glasses that are prescribed by a doctor, but the lenses have some differences. Prescription strength, also called power (one way to rate the lenses) is usually designed the same in prescription and non-prescription readers, but how the lenses are made can affect how you see through them. If you know the basic differences between the two types of glasses, you can purchase your reading glasses with confidence.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Rate the fit of the frames. Look for frames that fit you comfortably. Try on several pairs until you have a good idea as to what feels right for you. Frames should fit correctly on your nose and not slide down. The temples, also called armpieces, should fit gently around the back of your ear and have enough length to keep the frames from sliding down your nose.
-
2
Rate the power. Look for the proper power or strength of lenses that you need. If you are unsure, a good rule of thumb is to start with a power of +1.00 (called diopters) if you are just starting to wear reading glasses. Reading lenses start at +1.00 and increase in .25 increments. The general guideline age range of power is around 40 years old: +1.00. From age 43 to 47, +1.50. Age 48-53, +2.00.
-
-
3
Test the power of the lenses with some small print. If you have to hold what you are reading out further than a comfortable distance, the lenses are too weak. If you have to hold the print very close to your face, the lenses are too strong. Try on several lens strengths until you find the one that works best for your vision.
-
4
Try the lenses out for several types of reading work. Reading correction can be used in different ways. You might hold a book to read on your lap, and that would require a certain power. But you might also use your computer at a different distance, and you would need a different strength lens for that type of work. You can have more than one pair and strength of reading glasses depending on how you use them.
-
5
Wear the glasses in the store for a few minutes before buying them to see if you develop any distortion, problems seeing through the lenses or headaches. Because nonprescription reading glasses are designed as "one size fits all" and most people have unique prescriptions, using nonprescription reading glasses can become uncomfortable and actually cause problems instead of helping to correct vision. Testing and rating the lenses for a few minutes before buying the glasses helps to avoid wasting your money on something you won't be able to use.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Obtain a copy of your written spectacle prescription from your eye doctor, even if you do not buy glasses from him. By law you are allowed to have a copy from your exam. Check to see if your eyes have the same power in both eyes. Nonprescription reading glasses are made with the same power in both lenses and work best for people who have this type of prescription.
If you have a large astigmatism (anything over .50), nonprescription reading glasses will cause eye strain. Most people have some astigmatic correction (written as CYL or cylinder on your prescription). Nonprescription reading glasses are made only with distance power and are not designed to correct astigmatism.
