Q: I noticed I’ve had problems reading credit card receipts when I am signing them. Do I need reading glasses?
A: As we age, the lenses in our eyes become less flexible, making it difficult to focus on close objects. This condition, known as presbyopia, usually becomes noticeable in our 40s or 50s. Presbyopia is a natural part of aging and affects nearly everyone to some degree.
If you find yourself holding books, newspapers or screens at arm’s length to see them clearly, or if you experience eye strain or headaches when reading, you may have presbyopia and could benefit from reading glasses.
Reading glasses come in various styles and strengths. You can find them in drugstores, supermarkets, online retailers and at many optometry and ophthalmology offices. They are available in different magnification levels, usually ranging from +1.00 to +3.00 diopters, with higher numbers indicating stronger magnification.