Are Computer Reading Glasses Right For You? How to Find Your Lens Strength

Are Computer Reading Glasses Right For You? How to Find Your Lens Strength

If you're starting to experience blurry vision and headaches while reading or working on a smartphone, tablet, or computer, then consider getting a pair of reading glasses. Blue light blocking reading glasses can help prevent overexposure to blue light and give your eyes the boost they need.

Digital eye strain is caused by focusing on a digital screen for a long period of time. Problems related to this condition range from eye strain, eye fatigue and blurry vision to headaches, neck pain, and shoulder pain.* Blue light reading glasses provide relief from eye fatigue caused by prolonged screen time and glare. 

But how do you know which lens strength is best for your eyes? First thing to know is that reading glasses strength is measured in diopters. There is always a + symbol before the power which represents the lens strength. The higher the diopter, the more powerful your lens magnification. Computer screens are usually about an arm’s length (approx. 18”) from your eyes. If you do a lot of up-close work, about 12” or closer, then you’ll most likely need a stronger magnification strength.

Here's our guide to finding the optimal reading glasses strength:

1. Visit an optometrist

Trying to find the correct reading glasses strength can be trial and error without the help of a professional. It’s important to get precisely the lens strength that you need since you’ll be wearing your glasses every day. That’s why our #1 recommendation is to visit your optometrist to get their expertise on the lens strength that’s right for you. 

2. Reading glasses strength by age

In general, most people will need reading glasses at one point in their life due to presbyopia.** This is an eye condition that occurs starting around age 40 and makes it harder for the eyes to focus. This can be especially challenging for close-up tasks. Wearing a pair of reading glasses can vastly help this condition. Below is a broad overview of recommended reading strength by age range:

  • Ages 40–49: Recommended power +0.75 to +1.50 diopters 
  • Ages 50–59: Recommended power +1.50 to +2.25 diopters
  • Ages 60 and up: Recommended power +2.25 to +2.75 diopters

3. Reading Glasses Strength Chart

Once you have a recommended power range from step 2, you can also try testing your eyes with a printable diopter reading test.

  1. Print the reading glasses strength chart at actual size (click here to download).
  2. Hold the printed chart or hang it on a wall about 14 inches away from your face.
  3. Without wearing any glasses or contact lenses, read the chart from top (smallest text) to bottom (largest text). 
  4. Once you find a row that looks completely clear, the number to the right of that line is your reading lens strength.
  5. Tip: If you’re having trouble deciding between two lines, then choose the line with the lower power to start with. It’s better to wear lenses that are slightly weak than too strong. This chart is only meant as a guide, we strongly recommend contacting your optometrist to confirm the correct glasses strength for you.

At Fifth & Ninth, you’ll find our Dakota Blue Light Blocking Reading Glasses in the following magnifications: +1.50, +2.00, and +2.50. Dakota is a unisex style that features a classic round frame with rivet accents for a polished look. These lightweight glasses are available in neutral colors that go with any look effortlessly. 

Don’t need reading glasses just yet, but want the benefits of blue light blocking lenses? Check out our Chandler Blue Light Blocking Glasses! Chandler has the same frame as Dakota without the lens magnification for everyday wear. 

 

*Source: Healthline

**Source: UCLA Health