Many Vision Problems Are Solved With Trifocal Lenses

By Brandon Powers


As individuals age, they often notice vision problems that naturally occur as one grows older. Even though certain people may become frightened, vision changes of this kind do not typically indicate serious health issues. However, frustration can set in when one cannot see good enough to operate a car or read. Fortunately, trifocal lenses can be purchased for those who need multiple powers in one pair of glasses or contacts.

In the 1780s, Benjamin Franklin invented the first bifocals. Before this invention, those who were afflicted with presbyopia, which is essentially being both nearsighted and farsighted, had to own several pairs of glasses, one for each condition. The first bifocals featured a line traveling the width of the lens. The top section was for distance vision, and the bottom for reading.

As individuals age into their 50s, presbyopia sometimes develops in such a way that it affects the intermediate vision, as well as distance and reading vision. With the help of a bifocal lens, the wearer can see far and near, but his or her arm's length vision remains blurry. In the 1940s, trifocals were invented, thus solving this problem.

Trifocals feature a 2nd lens section over the close-up vision segment in a long distance lens. This gives the lens three distinct powers. Therefore, it allows individuals to see clearly in three fields of vision.

There are 2 types of modern trifocals. These are flat top and executive style. With executive style, ribbon shaped sections are divided by a visible line that goes throughout the width of the lens. Flat top designs have rounded segments and do not feature lines. The latter are very popular among many individuals.

Advancements in modern technology provide a vast array of multifocal contacts as well. Such devices are beneficial in the sense that they provide the same 3 clarified vision feels as do traditional eyeglasses. Ultimately, any person who has experienced age-related vision problems should make an appointment with a qualified optometrist to discuss using trifocal lenses.




About the Author: