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Can You Have 20/20 Vision and Still Need Reading Glasses?

03.11.23

When we hear someone boast about their 20/20 vision, it's common to assume that they don't need any form of visual aid. However, having 20/20 vision doesn't guarantee that you won't need reading glasses, especially as you age. This is an important distinction that many may not understand. Let's delve deeper into the concept.

Understanding 20/20 Vision

The term "20/20 vision" is synonymous with "normal vision." This means that from a distance of 20 feet, you can clearly see what an average person should be able to see at that distance. But as we've learned, this does not equate to perfection, but rather an average standard.

How Age Affects Vision

As people age, they might encounter a condition known as presbyopia. This is a natural part of the aging process where the lens of the eye loses its flexibility. This makes it challenging to focus on close-up objects, despite having 20/20 distance vision. Presbyopia usually becomes noticeable around the age of 40.

So, even if someone has had flawless 20/20 vision all their life, they might still find themselves reaching for a pair of reading glasses when trying to read a book, view a menu, or check their phone.

Why Reading Glasses Become Essential

Reading glasses specifically address the issue of presbyopia. They offer a magnification that aids in making close-up objects appear clearer. So, even with 20/20 vision, there’s a good chance that someone will benefit from reading glasses as they age.

Additionally, while 20/20 visual acuity is commendable, other factors can affect the overall quality of one's vision. For instance, eye coordination, depth perception, colour vision, and peripheral vision are just as crucial. Any discrepancies in these areas might also necessitate the use of glasses or other corrective measures.

While 20/20 vision is often heralded as the pinnacle of visual health, it's essential to recognise that it's not the ultimate indicator of overall eye health or functionality. Various conditions and age-related changes can impact the eyes, necessitating the use of corrective lenses.

If you find yourself straining to read up close or if reading has become a task rather than a pleasure, consider investing in a quality pair of reading glasses—even if you boast 20/20 vision. They can provide the clarity and comfort needed to enjoy reading again.

For those in search of top-quality reading glasses, Baxter Blue offers a range of stylish and functional with the addition of a blue light filter and anti-reflective coating, because even the sharpest of eyes sometimes need a little help.

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