Who needs varifocal lenses?
James Williams
Published Apr 24, 2026
Varifocal lenses are usually required by those over the age of 40; this is because of a normal loss of near focusing ability. The crystalline lens in our eye loses elasticity and gets stiffer as we grow older, resulting in our close sight deteriorating.
Also to know is, who uses varifocal lenses?
Varifocals are worn by those who require multiple vision corrections for refractive errors brought on by presbyopia. This is a natural, age-related condition that means it can become difficult to see things up close, and usually happens when you're around 40 years old and continues to progress.
Secondly, is varifocal better than bifocal? What is the difference between bifocal and varifocal lenses? A bifocal has an obvious line on the lens whereas the varifocal has a smooth unobstructed surface. For your visual needs bifocals will only cater for two distances. Varifocals can cater for all the distances that you need to see.
Correspondingly, what are varifocal glasses used for?
Varifocal glasses are used by people who require multifocal correction. This basically means that your ability to focus at various distances is hindered. This can be caused by the onset of presbyopia, hyperopia, myopia, astigmatism or a mixture of several of these eye conditions.
What is the alternative to Varifocals?
A varifocal is a great all round lens, designed to allow vision for distance, reading and computer.
Related Question Answers
Should I wear Varifocals all the time?
Whenever you buy any new pair of spectacles, you will have to get used to them. Some people only need a couple of days to get accustomed to new glasses, while others need up to two weeks. This is why it's so important to continue to wear your varifocal glasses consistently so that your eyes can adjust to them.Are varifocal lenses worth it?
Varifocals correct your vision over a wide range of distances and do not have a line. The lens is designed to gradually change from the distance power to the reading power as it progresses down the lens. These lenses may be particularly useful if you need an intermediate correction, for example computer work.How do I know if I need Varifocals?
Wearing varifocal lensesIf you are aged over 40 and begin to notice that objects close up are appearing blurry, or you're struggling to see clearly in low lit conditions, it is possible that you may need varifocal lenses.
Are Varifocals good for driving?
Driving in varifocals is perfectly safe. However, you first need to make sure you are comfortable wearing them indoors and have perfected the head movements needed to position the centre of the lens in the direction you want to look at.How do I know if my Varifocals are correct?
If you feel that your vision has changed, it could be because your frame is out of alignment. This is particularly true of varifocals – if they are not sitting correctly, you could be looking through the wrong part of the lens, and your vision will seem blurry. They hurt behind your ears.Can Varifocals make you feel dizzy?
Dizziness and headache, a stiff neck, fatigue and constantly tripping when going up the stairs – there are many stories about the problems encountered by wearers as they get used to new progressive lenses.Can I wear contact lenses if I need Varifocals?
If you normally wear bifocal or varifocal glasses, you can also wear bifocal or varifocal contact lenses. They provide 'real world' vision and can help you switch focus from close vision to distant – great for days when you don't want to wear glasses.Why can't I get used to my Varifocals?
Sometimes the frame might need a simple adjustment to make a difference. There is no need to worry or get anxious when using varifocal lenses. If you are having a hard time adjusting to them, just let your optician know and he will find a solution.How much are varifocal glasses at Specsavers?
Range of lenses offered by opticians| Specsavers | Optical Express | |
|---|---|---|
| Varifocal - basic | £49 | £119 |
| Varifocal - medium range | £79 | |
| Varifocal - advanced | £119 (tailor made £159) | |
| Polarised | £60 | £129 |
Can you get varifocal sunglasses?
Almost all of our prescription sunglasses, goggles and everyday glasses are now available with varifocal lenses. Simply place your order online, or please feel free to call us on 01780 783932 if you prefer. We will make up your glasses and ship them to you.Why do Varifocals have soft focus?
Varifocals are the best solution when more than one prescription is needed to correct your vision. As they combine two prescriptions in one lens, you do not have to carry two different pairs of glasses. The more advanced a lens the less soft focus it will have, meaning it better replicates natural vision.Can Varifocals give you headaches?
This is because varifocal glasses have three different zones for making the objects appear clear kept at a distance, nearby and at an intermediate level without any visible partition in the lens. Adjusting to a new pair of varifocal or bifocal glasses does cause the headache for the initial few days of usage.Are Varifocals more expensive?
They use technology also found in Zeiss varifocals, which are significantly more expensive.What brand of lenses do Specsavers use?
Specsavers' put their lenses in their own easyvision packaging. Some of the manufacturers that produce Specsavers easyvision contact lenses and their branded equivalents include Coopervision, Sauflon, Bausch & Lomb and Ciba Vision.What are half moon glasses?
Half Moon Glasses For ReadingEach frame supplied with lenses to your prescription. It has a microfiber cleaning cloth ideal for cleaning lenses with or without a “Blue Light Coating” and has the advantage of be easily washed.
What is the meaning of varifocal lens?
A varifocal lens is a camera lens with variable focal length in which focus changes as focal length (and magnification) changes, as compared to parfocal ("true") zoom lens, which remains in focus as the lens zooms (focal length and magnification change).What does trifocal glasses mean?
Trifocals are eyeglasses with lenses that have three regions which correct for distance, intermediate (arm's length), and near vision. Trifocals are mostly used by people with advanced presbyopia who have been prescribed 2 diopters or more of reading addition.Do specsavers do bifocals?
Yes. Bifocal lenses combine two prescriptions into a single pair of glasses. The top part of the lens corrects distance vision, and the lower part corrects vision for close-up focusing. Bifocals have two lens powers – one for distance and one for up close.Are Varifocals suitable for computer use?
The next step may be varifocals which you can wear all day for clear, comfortable vision at near and far. These are a very good choice for most everyday situations, but they are suitable for desk or computer work to a limited extent only. Progressive lenses allow you to see at all distances.Can you get varifocal contact lenses?
Types of varifocal (multifocal) contact lensesVarifocal lenses can be soft or rigid (gas permeable) and are available in a range of different designs to suit your prescription and lifestyle. For most people, varifocal contact lenses are very easy and comfortable to wear.
