About two years ago, I had cataract surgery on both eyes. While they weren’t able to get my near vision back to 20/20, they were able to manage 20/30, which meant I should still wear corrective lenses for near vision.

But I also need lenses for distance vision, so they suggested progressive lenses.

And I hated them.

Now, let me explain. They were great for driving, watching TV (especially since I like to watch old programs while I knit) and around the house. They were great for grocery shopping, so I could see the signs up overhead and read labels.

They were not so good for walking through the parking lot or taking my nature walks through the woods or down our dirt and gravel road.

Why?

Let me explain.

When you walk and need to look down to watch where you’re stepping, you need to use distance lenses. But the way the lenses are made puts the distance bit is at the top of the lenses. So you wind up looking down toward your feet with the near vision part of the lenses, which does no good whatsoever. It puts everything out of focus.

I couldn’t tell how high curbs in front of the store were, or see dips and rises in the road ahead when walking. I don’t know how many times I tripped because I couldn’t actually see where I was going. I finally started tipping my glasses up and looking with just my eyes. They weren’t quite as clear as they would have been with distance glasses, but they were a lot better than with the near vision portion of the progressives.

What I wound up doing was getting a pair of single vision glasses for distance. They took a little getting used to, but I seldom trip over bumps in the road. I still don’t quite trust them when stepping over curbs.

I thought it was just me, but according to an article in the latest AARPBulletin (October 2024), The Hidden Dangers of Progressive Lenses, I’m not alone. Studies have shown that people over age 65 with multi-focal lenses are up to three times more likely to suffer falls. The stronger the near vision part of the prescription, the greater the risk.

Is it a bit of a hassle to carry a second pair of glasses and switch? Yes. But I would rather have the inconvenience than a fall that put me in the hospital.

Do I like the progressives?

I do–for driving and shopping. For driving, I can see both the road ahead and the information on the dashboard. For walking? Not at all.

So if you’re getting a new prescription and considering progressives, give it some thought. See if the provider has a program for a discount on a second pair of glasses. Or just spring for a second pair for walking.

Take care of your eyes, but don’t forget to take care of the rest of you, too.

Stay healthy, stay happy, and stay safe!

(This is one of the places where I walk.)