Here is why you Probably need Reading Glasses Over 40

Presbyopia usually begins in your 40s and can make reading small print challenging. It impacts around 1.8 billion people globally. Selecting the right strength of reading glasses over the 40 is crucial to prevent discomfort such as headaches and eye strain.

Many people will need reading glasses as they approach age 40 due to natural vision changes. Some estimates suggest that over 34 million Americans rely on over-the-counter readers.

“Around the time you turn 40, you will probably find that you hold reading materials farther away than usual to see them clearly,” Sidney Gicheru, MD, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, said.

The need for reading glasses is often caused by presbyopia, a condition that typically strikes in your 40s and can affect various daily activities. Normal ageing can cause the eyes’ lens to lose their ability to focus on objects up close.

“Reading is not the only life function that is affected,” Gicheru said. “It also affects the clarity of any tasks or hobbies we like to do up close.”

Signs You Need Reading Glasses

Ageing is the most common cause of presbyopia and the need for readers—about 85% of people over 40 have the condition—but it can affect people under 40, too.

The following symptoms can indicate presbyopia, according to Steven Reed, OD, president of the American Optometric Association:

• Blurred vision while holding reading materials at a normal distance
• Headaches or eye fatigue when working on something up close
• Needing to hold reading materials at arm’s length
• Squinting more frequently
• Trouble seeing smaller print in dim light

If you experience these symptoms, it could mean you need to start wearing reading glasses, Reed said.

How to Pick Readers

It’s essential to choose the right reading glasses, as wearing the wrong pair could worsen your vision. Picking out readers may seem as straightforward as holding up a couple of pairs and seeing which pair helps the most, but it’s more complicated than that.

You may need different pairs of readers for different activities. “If you’re wearing the reading glasses primarily when using a computer, you will likely need a lower reading glasses power because most people view their screen from a greater distance from their eyes than when they are reading a book or magazine,” Reed said. “The longer the viewing distance, the less reading glasses power you need for comfortable vision.”

Wearing the wrong pair of reading glasses could lead to uncomfortable symptoms. “Headaches, eye strain, and nausea can result from wearing reading glasses that are not a correct prescription or do not correct each eye equally,” said Reed.

ALSO READ: Signs Your Body Is Aging Faster Than You Are

An optometrist can help you determine the best reading glasses for your needs.

When Readers Aren’t Enough

Not all eye symptoms people experience in their 40s can be attributed to presbyopia. Pain, discharge, frequent headaches, and significant vision changes should prompt you to speak with an eye doctor as soon as possible, no matter your age.

You should also talk to an eye doctor if you still feel you’re squinting to read even while wearing them, or if you’re having trouble seeing things in general.

During an eye exam, an eye doctor can rule out underlying conditions that could contribute to vision changes.

“Some eye diseases, like glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration, begin without any symptoms, so an eye exam with an [eye doctor] is critical to maintaining your eye health and getting treatment before your vision is compromised,” Gicheru said.

As people reach their 40s, many find themselves needing reading glasses because of a common issue known as presbyopia. If you find it challenging to read or have to hold things at a distance to see them clearly, it might be time to consider getting reading glasses. An eye doctor can assist you in selecting the right pair and can also check for any other eye conditions that might be impacting your vision.