How to Use a Reading Magnifier

Magnifying glass

A reading magnifier can make a tremendous impact on your ability to read material with less effort. Whether you only need a magnifier occasionally for fine print or you need one for most printed material, using a magnifier correctly can reduce the strain on your eyes and make your reading experience much more pleasant.

Things You'll Need

• Reading magnifier
• Light source
• Printed material

Instructions

1. Choose a magnifier that best suits your needs. Some are hand-held with a handle, while some are flat like a sheet and can be laid over a full page. Other magnifiers are positioned on a stand while some are more portable and can hang around your neck. Pick up several and try them out in the store to see which feels most comfortable and suits your purpose (for instance, reading price tags in a store vs. reading a newspaper at home).

2. Make sure you have adequate light. Many magnifiers come with a built-in light source that you can switch on. If your magnifier doesn't have this, make sure that you are reading in a well-lit area.

3. Place the magnifier right on the printed sheet or printed material and move it toward you slowly until the print begins to blur.

4. Move the magnifier back toward the sheet or printed material. Continue to move the tool closer and farther from your face until you find the position that makes the print most easily visible to you.

5. Take breaks from reading as needed. If you're going to be reading for a long time, you still may need a break even if you are using a magnifier. Even people with healthy vision can experience eye strain after long periods of reading.

References

• Web RN-Macular Degeneration: Reading Magnifier
• The Vision Council: Low Vision