Should I have to move my head back a little to read with bifocals?

Question

Whenever I need to read and I look through the bottom, I can only read the bottom of the cpu screen. I need to raise my head a bit to read what im trying to see. Does that make sense? Should I be moving my head up slightly to read the top of the computer screen?

Answer 1

Try adjusting how the bifocals sit on the bridge of your nose (how far away from your eyes the lenses are).  You should only have to refocus to the lower part of the lense in order to read.  If that doesn't work, you may want to have the prescription rechecked by an optometrist or opthalmologist to make sure it's correct.  It does sound like the glasses aren't sitting on your face correctly, though.

Edit:  In answer to your additional question, I just raise my eyes to look at the browser slot.  I don't have to do anything with my head.  I'm wearing progressive (no-line) bifocals

Answer 2

Bifocals are really not designed to function as well as other options for computer screens.  A bifocal is designed to be fit BELOW visual level in order to be used for reading things held in the hands or on a table for instance.  When the individual looks down the eyes simply move down the lens into the bottom portion with the bifocal without the need for any head movement.  BUT, when a person needs to read something on eye level the bifocal is less efficient.  If the bifocal were fit so high as to allow viewing of a computer screen with little head movement, then the line would be so high that it would interfere with your distance vision and require a downward head movement when watching tv or driving or doing anything at distance.  So, yes a well positioned bifocal will require an upward head movement when using the computer.  If you had your eye doctor put your bifocal power in the entire lens without a bifocal then you would not have to hold your head up BUT you would not be able to see at a distance with the glasses on.

EDIT:  To shewrites.  ALL multifocals, whether lined or no lined, if fit correctly will require at least a moderate upward head movement if the computer is at eye level.  ALL.