Adjusting to Bi-Focals?

Question

I'm in my late 40's and will be getting my first pair of glasses with bi-focals this week. I went with the no-lines. How long did it take most of you to adjust to your bi-focals? I'm nervous about driving with them on. Any input would be appreciated.

Answer 1

If you have been well fitted, you will adjust in less than a week. Walking down steps may take a bit longer. Don't fret.

Answer 2

Insist that the people you're getting them from brief you properly if they don't volunteer such.  You should get a good "walk through" demo of the do's, don'ts and tricks.

For most things, you should settle pretty quickly.  A week at the outside.

If you find things in the distance are clearer if you dip your head a little, the glasses may be fitted a little high.

If you find you have to lift your chin a little to get the best reading effect they my be a little low.  

To read a notice on a wall, you will have to raise your chin.

To clear your vision of your feet for going down steps, drop your chin or c**k your head to one side to clear the reading strength out of the way.  This usually quickly becomes quite automatic.

Three places varifocal glasses *don't* work: driving a sportscar with a laid-back driving position, and leaning back on a sofa watching televison, where in both cases the natural position of the head is too high and the reading power gets in the way,

and doing DIY or decorating at shoulder height or above where, without breaking your neck, the reading power can't be brought to bear.

If any of these apply at all frequently, specialised glasses might be appropriate.

Answer 3

My first pair were trifocal progressives.  I got them nearly 2 years ago and still can't see well with them.  Instead, I rely on my monovision contacts to correct my near and far-sightedness with much better results.  Good luck =)

Answer 4

I found them remarkable easy to adjust to.

Be careful walking up/down stairs but for driving I was looking through my bifocals at the normal place as with regular glasses so there was not problem.

Answer 5

if you are worried about adjustment, make sure you can see well before you leave the office.  you may have to return every few weeks for a readjustment.  relax cuz you'll be able to see the small print now.