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Vision

Description of near vision spectacles

Lesson: 1 of 3
Topic: 2 of 2
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How near vision spectacles work

Near vision spectacles work by making text or objects look larger (magnified). The power (strength) of the lens determines how much bigger text or objects will look.

There are different types of near vision spectacles. This module covers near vision spectacles with:

  • A magnification power range between +1.00 (weakest) to +3.00 (stronger).
  • The same power in the right and left lens.

Near vision spectacles, which are two glass lenses held in a simple frame.

Question

What is the difference between near vision spectacles and prescription spectacles?

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  • Standard near vision spectacles are ready-made with standard powers. The right and left lenses are the same power. They are usually just for people with near vision problems in older adults (presbyopia).
  • Prescription spectacles are prepared individually. They are prescribed after a full eye exam, by a person trained to do this. Prescription spectacles help people with different types of refractive error including distance vision problems (myopia), near vision problems (hyperopia) and astigmatism.

The different parts of near vision spectacles

Near vision spectacles have two main parts:

  • The lens, which is the part that people look through.
  • The frame, which includes:
    • Rims, which hold the lens in place.
    • The bridge, which joins the two rims and sits above the person’s nose.
    • Nose pads, which are small plastic pieces that sit on either side of the person’s nose. They keep the spectacles in a comfortable position.
    • The temples, which extend from the rim to each side of a person’s head and over their ears.
    • The hinge, which allows the spectacles to be folded when not in use.

Discussion

Are near vision spectacles available in your area? Where are they available, and in what powers?

Frame sizes

Near vision spectacles are usually available in a few different frame sizes.

This is helpful to allow the best fit possible for each person.

Frame sizes vary depending on the manufacturer.

Some common size options are:

  • The diameter of the lens
  • The width of the bridge
  • The length of the temples

Some spectacles may have these measurements marked on the inside of the temple.

Near vision spectacles showing the temple length which is from one end of the flexible arm to the other end. The bridge width is the measurement of the piece that sits above the nose, and the lens diameter is the width of the lens.

Activity

Have a close look at the near vision spectacles available to you.

  • Are there different frame sizes? If so, what are the differences?
  • What powers do they come in?

You have completed Lesson one!