So, you have completed your yearly comprehensive eye exam and have discovered you need vision correction. The next big decision is whether you prefer glasses, contacts, or both depending on your prescription. Both glasses and contacts have continued to advance over time, meaning each are incredibly versatile vision correction options and offer wearers many benefits.
The History of Glasses
Humans had made attempts to magnify vision for several thousands of years before glasses were even invented. These attempts ranged from a water bowl used as a magnification tool to a “reading stone” to spectacles. When the first actual pair of glasses were invented, they only suited those with farsightedness. Glasses for nearsightedness weren’t invented until much later. Those that needed vision correction didn’t see a local eye doctor until the 1800s. Instead, they purchased glasses from peddlers hoping that they got the prescription that was best for them. Today, many different types of glasses are suitable for varying lifestyles, vision needs, and appearance.
The History of Contact Lenses
Over the years, contact lenses have become a very popular alternative should you not want to wear glasses. Contact lenses have evolved substantially since their origination date of the late 1800s. When initially invented, contact lenses were made of blown glass and completely covered the eye, meaning they weren’t very comfortable to wear. Your eyes get oxygen directly from the air, thus making the glass coverings damaging and oxygen restricting. Contacts have continued to evolve with combinations of plastic and glass, but in the 1970s, the first gas-permeable contact lenses were invented, which allowed for the comfort and breathability many of us have come to enjoy today. Today, many different types of contact lenses range in consistency from soft to hard:
- Daily wear
- Daily disposables
- Extended wear
- Bifocal
- Multifocal
Choose What’s Best for Your Lifestyle
Glasses and contacts are both excellent options for vision correction. The product you choose is ultimately up to you based on individual preference and lifestyle. Individuals around the world have found value in both glasses and contacts. From budget and activity level to maintenance requirements and style preferences, each of these vision correction options are sure to meet your needs.
Activity
When choosing between glasses or contacts, it’s essential to consider your activity level and any sports participation. Manufacturers have worked to make contacts and glasses designs that are convenient for active lifestyles. Regardless of your age, glasses can come equipped with a strap so they don’t fall off during activity and contacts allow individuals to see clearly without extra gear. Whether you participate in extracurricular sports, ride motorcycle, or are an avid runner, both of these vision correction options support active lifestyle choices and allow for optimal comfort even in the most strenuous situations.
Convenience
Glasses and contact lenses are both convenient vision correction options. At the end of the day it ultimately comes down to what option is best for your lifestyle. Today, both contact lenses and glasses can be equipped with built-in UV protection. Individuals can purchase glasses that transition in tint when traveling from inside to outside and many contact brands have chosen to incorporate UV protection into their designs. With these industry transformations, individuals seeking vision correction have access to many convenient options that cater to every walk of life.
Adaptable
Given that contact lenses and glasses have evolved over the years, both vision correction options are adaptable. Individuals suffering from farsightedness, nearsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia can find relief with both contact lenses and glasses. Depending on the severity of your refractive error, you may be required to wear one or the other during certain activities such as reading or watching television. Regardless, both contacts and glasses have continued to evolve and transform over the years and as a result those in need of vision correction have access to remarkable solutions that promote versatility and adapt easily to any lifestyle.
Maintenance
Both contacts and glasses need to be taken care of and cleaned regularly to avoid any complications and ensure you see clearly. Contact lenses must be disinfected regularly to prevent bacteria buildup and remove protein deposits. The lenses of your glasses must be cleaned periodically throughout the day to eliminate the risk of debris and bacteria from entering your eyes. Practicing proper maintenance is extremely important to preserve the quality of your contact lenses or glasses.
Style and Comfort
Contacts and glasses come in various styles, allowing wearers to find the best design for their comfort and taste. Contact lenses are available in a range of colors, so wearers can change their eye color if they wish. Glasses are available in many different shapes, sizes, and colors which allow individuals seeking vision correction to make a bold fashion statement with a luxury frame or add a subtle addition to their daily style. Both options are comfortable and provide wearers with outstanding design versatility, meaning you can easily choose a style that complements your personality and lifestyle.
Affordability
There are many different types of contacts and glasses ranging in cost, meaning consumers in need can find an affordable solution that fits their budget. Both contacts and glasses can become damaged when we least expect it. The lenses and frames of your glasses can bend or break and your contacts can become torn or experience deposit build up. Today, contact lenses and glasses are both affordable options for vision correction and there are many websites and locations outside of the eye care clinic such as Costco where glasses and contact wearers can purchase these items.
Contact Your Eye Doctor to Improve Your Vision Today
If you’re noticing changes to your vision, you may need vision correction or an updated prescription. Contact your eye doctor for a comprehensive or pediatric eye exam, and you’ll be well on your way to clearer vision. After your exam, your eye doctor will help you choose the best vision correction option for you. Whether it’s guiding you through a contact lens fitting or finding the best glasses lens for your face shape, you’ll soon discover the option that is most comfortable for you and your lifestyle.
