Reading glasses are commonly associated with aging. At a certain point, sometime after your 40s usually, your eyesight starts to diminish. It gets harder to read small text or in low light. However, due to lifestyle changes brought about by the digital age, people are starting to reach for reading glasses at a younger age. 

What Are Reading Glasses?

You can get prescription reading glasses, but when you hear the term “readers,” many people are talking about the kind you can buy over the counter or online without a prescription. These glasses act like magnifiers and come in different strengths from +1 to +4. They can be used by people who otherwise have had good vision, but due to aging, are having a little trouble seeing text. They aren’t meant for extended use; you’ll often see people pull them out to read a text message or the menu at a restaurant. 

The diminished ability to see small text or anything up close is a normal part of the aging process. You can’t really do anything to stop it but you can pick out a super cute pair of reading glasses to match any outfit or style you want. 

Why Do Some Young Adults Need Reading Glasses Today? 

Young adults and those in their 30s without eyesight issues don’t usually need reading glasses but optometrists are seeing reading glasses used at a younger age than before. Eye strain due to extended periods looking at computer screens and taking in blue light are being blamed for this quickening of pace in needing readers. The eyes become tired, irritated, dry, and strained. You’ll notice this type of eye strain if you experience blurred vision, dry eyes, and headaches. 

The good news is, that even if you need to get readers at a younger than usual age, there are plenty of trendy fashionable frames to choose from! 

A Few Tips For Maintaining Healthy Eyesight At Any Age 

To avoid eye strain and the need for reading glasses for as long as possible, it is important to focus on good eye health. Here are some suggestions for keeping your eyes healthy:

• Get regular eye exams and talk to your eye doctor about your lifestyle and things you might need to do to protect your eyesight. 
• Don’t smoke and if you are already a smoker, quit. Smoking makes eyes dry and irritated. 
• Eat a balanced and healthy diet full of antioxidants. You can do this by getting plenty of servings of fruits and vegetables each day. 
• Drink a lot of water and stay hydrated.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV light that can be damaging. 
• If you use the computer for work or spend an excessive amount of time in front of a screen you could try blue light blockers and eye drops for moisture. 
• If you wear glasses or contacts make sure to keep them clean and wear them as prescribed. Not wearing your prescription glasses can make your eyesight worse.