An optometrist explains: what are progressive lenses?

Progressive lenses: what are they, who are they for and how do they work?

Progressive lenses help you see clearly at any distance without the need to own multiple pairs of glasses. Unlike bifocal lenses, progressive lenses do not have a visible line, so they look exactly like ordinary lenses. The change in strength is smooth across the entire lens.

Natural age-related changes in the human eye’s lens begin to occur around age 40–45. The lens is no longer able to focus as well at different distances.

Progressive lenses are the ideal solution for those who want to see at different distances with the same pair of glasses.

“Progressive lenses take some getting used to at first. On average, it can take a few days to a few weeks.” – Gerli Jones, Optometrist, Silmalaser

Progressive lenses have different zones:

• The upper part of the lens is designed for distance vision (watching TV, driving, walking)
• The middle part of the lens is for intermediate vision (looking at a computer or car dashboard, interacting with people).
• The lower part of the lenses is for near vision (reading, using a phone, crafting).

Initially, progressive lenses need some getting used to, which on averages takes from a few days to a few weeks. To get used to progressive lenses more quickly, you should wear them continuously. The less you replace them with your old glasses, the faster the adjustment.

When looking through progressive lenses, you should look straight ahead, that is, point your nose toward the object you are viewing.

Good to know!

While you’re still getting used to the lenses, you should keep your head and eye movements slower than usual. Progressive lenses are a smart choice for anyone with age-related vision changes. These lenses offer comfortable and clear vision all day, all in one pair. Progressive lenses are prescribed by an optometrist.