Assessment steps
TAP Vision screen
The first step in assessing if a person is likely to benefit from reading glasses is to complete the TAP vision screen (or a similar vision screen).
If the vision screen indicates that reading glasses may assist, you can then proceed to assess what strength is most likely to suit the person.
Always make sure that any other referrals indicated by the vision screen are carried out.
Read on to see a simple method of deciding the best strength of reading glasses for someone.
Decide which strength reading glasses will suit the person
Depending on the person’s age, select a pair of reading glasses for them to try. For a person aged:
- 35-44 – select +1.00
- 45-50 – select +1.50
- 51-55 – select +2.00
- Over 55 – select +2.50
Test how well the person can see the small Es using the near vision E-Chart. Hold the E-Chart at a distance that matches where the person most needs to see.
If the person can see the Es clearly, prescribe that strength.
If the person cannot see the Es clearly, try the next stronger or the next weaker number. Test until the person can clearly see the small Es.
If it is not possible to find a strength that helps the person see the small Es clearly, refer them to an eye health care professional for further assessment.