Difference Between Bifocals and Trifocals  

As people age, their eyewear needs often become more complex. Older people in particular are more likely to need varying prescriptions for near vision, driving, computer work and distance vision. These changes in prescriptions are usually considered to be a natural part of aging, but they can also be brought on by developing eye diseases. 

Your eye doctor in Coldwater, MS will be able to determine the reason behind any changes in vision. In the meantime, your doctor may recommend either bifocals or trifocals to assist you in achieving the best possible vision for various activities.

What Are Bifocals?

Bifocals are like having two eyeglass lenses in one. The top of the lens is for seeing things far away, and the bottom is made for near vision, which supports doing things like reading books, menus or sewing. There is typically a line of demarcation between the top part and the bottom part.

Since bifocal lenses only have two zones of vision, they don’t support middle vision, which would include things like a computer screen. Because this middle distance is between 18 and 24 inches from the eyes, bifocal lenses aren’t great for working online.

What Are Trifocals?

Trifocal lenses correct both near and far vision, but they also help people see well in the middle distance. Trifocals have a second small lens segment right above the portion of the lens made to support near vision needs. This gives the trifocal lens three power “zones.” This additional middle segment makes it easier for the person to see things that are in the middle distance, for instance a computer screen. Just as with bifocals, trifocal lenses often have clear lines that outline the various zones in the lens.

Finally, it’s worth noting that if you’re moving from regular lenses to bifocals or trifocals, it can take some time to get accustomed to them. But over time, your eyes will adjust to the different zones and ultimately you will get used to it just as you got used to wearing eyeglasses.

If you’ve been struggling with focusing on things at various distances, it’s possible that one of these solutions might work for you. Why not get an eyeglasses exam in Coldwater, MS to find out?