Bifocals are eyeglasses that help people see clearly close-up and far away. The lenses feature lines across the middle, with the top half used to see objects at a distance and the bottom half used for reading and viewing various objects close-up. If you recently switched to bifocals but have not yet gotten used to them, the following tips can help. 

How to Adjust to Wearing Bifocals

1. Ensure They Fit Correctly

If your bifocals do not fit well, you will likely take them off more often, prolonging the adjustment period. Choosing bifocal eyeglasses that accommodate your face shape and head size makes for a comfortable fit. Ask your technician to adjust them if they feel too tight on your temples or you have earpiece-related discomfort. To ensure optimal comfort, avoid rushing through your fitting and go back to the vision center after a few days if your glasses require further work, such as loosening the earpieces. 

2. Wear Them Regularly 

Wearing glasses for as long as possible every day helps your eyes and brain adjust quickly. Putting your bifocals on when you wake up and wearing them for longer durations each day speeds the adjustment process. If you are concerned about damaging UV rays from wearing your bifocals outdoors, consider purchasing bifocal sunglasses to streamline the adjustment process. Transition bifocals that automatically adjust to light variations are another possibility. 

3. Move Your Head When Viewing Objects

You are likely accustomed to scanning books, rooms, and landscapes with your eyes, but doing so while wearing bifocals can cause objects to be out of focus. Additionally, constantly switching between the top and bottom lenses with your eyes contributes to strain and headaches. Instead, train yourself to move your head in the appropriate direction, so you are looking through the top or bottom lens only. Also, try to avoid looking through the lower part of your bifocals when walking since the bottom portion makes objects seem larger, causing you to feel out of step and possibly trip and fall on stairs.

When reading, keeping the book or magazine about 16 inches from your face and moving it as you go encourages you to look through the bottom of your lenses, ensuring clear vision and helping you adjust to your new lenses.  

If adjusting to your new bifocal eyeglasses feels challenging, visit Eyewear Express in Rhinelander, WI. The vision center has three board-certified opticians who manufacture glasses in the onsite lab. They can check the fit of your glasses and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your comfort. Visit the website to learn more about them, or call (715) 365-1515 to schedule an appointment.