Am I Too Old to Switch to Contact Lenses?

As we age, our vision invariably changes, bringing forth questions about the best ways to correct vision and maintain an active, enjoyable lifestyle. One such question often posed by patients over 60 is whether it’s too late to switch to contact lenses. The simple answer is: it’s never too late. Advances in contact lens technology have made it possible for individuals at any age to enjoy the freedom and convenience that contacts offer.

Advances in Contact Lens Technology

In recent years, the development of contact lenses has seen remarkable advances, making them a feasible option for older adults. Early generation soft lenses, known for their thickness and propensity to dry out by the day’s end, have been replaced by thinner, lighter, and more breathable options. Today, materials like silicone hydrogels and water gradient lenses are designed to reduce drying and increase comfort throughout the day. These innovations address common reasons people have previously discontinued contact use, such as end-of-day discomfort or poor distance vision.

Types of Contact Lenses Available

There are a variety of contact lenses available to suit different vision needs and preferences. For instance, gas permeable lenses offer excellent oxygen permeability, which is beneficial for those with dry eyes, while soft contact lenses provide a comfortable experience for most wearers. Moreover, for those with presbyopia or astigmatism, multifocal and toric lenses respectively offer clear vision at all distances and correct astigmatism. Specialized options such as scleral lenses provide unparalleled comfort for those with keratoconus or irregular corneas.

Considering Your Needs and Lifestyle

Wearing contact lenses involves personal considerations, including the fit and care of the lenses, the cost, and your lifestyle. For example, disposable contacts, particularly daily disposables, eliminate the hassle of cleaning and decrease the risk of eye infections, making them a convenient choice for many. Furthermore, for adults over 40 experiencing presbyopia, options like bifocal or multifocal contact lenses, or even a monovision fitting strategy, provide seamless vision correction, eliminating the need to switch between different pairs of glasses.

Making the Switch to Contact Lenses

Deciding whether to switch to contact lenses involves discussing your vision needs, lifestyle, and any health conditions that may affect contact lens wear with your eye care professional. A comprehensive eye exam and fitting session will ensure that you choose the most suitable type and material of lens for your specific requirements.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

At Six One Six Vision Center, we’re committed to providing personalized eye care and helping you explore all available vision correction options, including transitioning to contact lenses, regardless of your age. Our experienced team is here to guide you through selecting the best contacts for your lifestyle and vision needs, ensuring comfort and clarity.

If you’re considering making the switch to contact lenses or have any questions about whether it’s the right choice for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Give Six One Six Vision Center a call or text at (208) 514-1858 or schedule online anytime. Located in Eagle, ID, we’re here to assist you in seeing life with renewed clarity.