Frequently Asked Questions About Bifocals for Children
What Are Bifocals?
Bifocals are lenses that contain two different prescriptions in the same lens. The primary purpose of a bifocal lens is to provide the optimal prescription for both near and far vision.
What Are Some Specific Reasons That Children Need Bifocals?
Bifocals may be recommended to reduce the amount of eye strain during close work which in some cases leads to progressing near-sightedness. A single vision distance prescription may be inappropriate for near visual activities. Bifocals may be prescribed to help a child focus and aim the eyes more effectively.
Bifocals may be helpful for children who have trouble changing their focus when looking from the desk to the blackboard and back again. Some children may show signs of strabismus (crossed-eyes) when looking at very close objects. For this reason, bifocals may be used to help the eyes aim correctly.
Aren't Bifocals For Children A Sign Of Bad Eyesight?
If your doctor of optometry prescribes bifocals, it does not necessarily mean your child has poor eyesight. Rather, bifocals may be prescribed for your child to provide the ideal correction for both near and far vision in one pair of glasses.
What Types Of Bifocals Are Available For My Child?
Your doctor of optometry will review your child's specific needs and recommend the type of bifocal that will best meet those needs. Bifocal lenses for children are available in polycarbonate material which is an important safety factor. Since there are quite a number of factors involved in wearing bifocals, it is best to follow your doctor's advise.
Will My Child Have Difficulty Adapting To Bifocals?
With proper encouragement from you, your child should adapt to wearing bifocals quite easily. Children generally have fewer problems than adults in adapting to bifocals.
How Long Will They Have To Be Worn?
Depending on your child's vision condition, the need for bifocals may be temporary. It is important to see your doctor on a regular basis to ensure that your child is still benefiting from his/her bifocal.
Need More Information?
For comments or questions contact:
uoc@sunyopt.edu | 1-888-277-5666