Among Friends

[BunSnoop]

It's time for me to go to the eye doctor for an exam and I need some stronger glasses.  I currently have single vision lenses.  I have 2 pairs of glasses - one for reading and the other for everything else.

Perhaps it's time for me to get bifocals.  I can remember hearing a few stories from friends on how they hated bifocals as they just could not get comfortable with them.  I remember people mentioning when they looked down they felt like the concrete sidewalk was in their face and another person told a similar story about looking down at the snow.

If you wear bifocals, was it difficult for you to get used to them?   How long did it take?  Were you comfortable driving right away with them?   Please let me know about your "break in" period - good or bad?

[Tori3569]

I also use 2 separate pairs of glasses.  I've tried 3x to get bifocals and could not get used to them.  I need to try again though because using separate distance and reading glasses is driving me crazy.  Good luck 

[ALRATIBA]

I've worn bifocals for about 30 years.  First couple of days took a bit getting used to them ... but never had an issue.

[sandy53]

I have worn bifocals for many years.  Mine have no line.  I had no problem adjusting to them.  Now after cataract surgery the top part is basically clear and the bottom is the reading portion.  I know some people talk about tripping, having trouble on stairways, etc., but I have never had those issues.  Make sure you go to a good eyeglass provider so they measure you carefully and accurately.  

[conlt]

I have worn bifocals for years and never had a problem with them. Mine are no-line bifocals. Don't purchase glasses with a small reading pane. I wear cat eye glasses, not phyllis diller type. 

[tansy]

Maybe you have cataracts, @BunSnoop.  I wanted a stronger prescription last year but it turned out I needed cataract surgery.

[jackthebear]

get the ones that are progressives 

no issues adjusting 

[Mombo1]

@jackthebear @BunSnoop 

I have the progressive lenses.  It didn't take long to adjust.  I personally prefer the Verilux brand.  Very easy to transition. 

[kze]

I've had progressives about 30 years.  I never wanted bifocals because to me they make you look old.  I had trouble on stairs for the first 30 minutes but I don't remember ever having trouble driving.

[Caffeina]

I went from cheap readers to progressives almost 30 years ago. It didn't take me long to adapt. When I first got them I took them off frequently, but always had to put them back on to read. As time went on, I kept them on longer. It was suggested not to wear them on stairs at first. When I did I made sure to be careful and held the handrail. I think one just has to have some patience. I like progressives since there's no line, and they provide near, intermediate, and distance vision.  I need them all the time now, and have a restriction on my driver's license.