Reading glasses: two main styles to determine the exact strength of reading glasses

Reading glasses come in two main styles: full frames, in which the entire lens is made in the reading prescription, and half-eyes, the smaller "Ben Franklin" style glasses that sit lower down on the nose. Ready made reading glasses are available in strengths ranging from 1.00 to 3.50. Most people are confused to determine the exact strength of reading glasses.

If in the case one hopes to visit a professional eye care specialist then there is no real need to worry about strength of glasses. The modern day glasses have low magnification and the lenses magnifies objects and text that are within close proximity to the eyes. Professional check up is an absolute must if in the case one hopes to gain the correct strength of glasses.

Magnifying lenses or generic spectacles that are used to treat mild presbyopia and hyperopia can be bought off the shelf. Although such glasses are generally considered safe, an individual prescription, as determined by an ophthalmologist or optometrist and made by a qualified optician, usually results in better visual correction and fewer headaches & visual discomfort.

Full reading glasses are more suitable for people who only need them for close-up reading while half-eye reading glasses can be used to read at smaller or larger distances. The reading glasses are most of the time needed by people who have never worn glasses. Although specialists recommend individuals who need to wear eyeglasses have them custom-made according to their needs, most people prefer buying them at a pharmacy or department store.

This type of eyeglass-shopping became very popular in the 1990s when it was estimated that over 30 million pairs were sold per year. These reading glasses are not as expensive as custom-made glasses and can be purchased off the shelf in a wide variety of colors and designs, suitable for different tastes.