When we look at near distances, we are required to focus with more effort than is used for far distances. Unlike adults, most children have plenty of extra focusing ability, but sometimes they use it inefficiently.
For adults, bifocal or progressive addition lenses provide the convenience of not having to carry around two pairs of glasses. For children it is more than a matter of convenience. Children must make rapid changes in looking from the desk to the blackboard and back again, and two separate pairs of glasses would be impractical. A single vision distance prescription may be inappropriate for near visual activities. A bifocal prescription may serve to limit the progression of nearsightedness, or to assist binocular vision when reading.
Bifocal lenses are actually a form of vision therapy. They are used for a period of time and when they have served their purpose they may no longer be needed. In some instances bifocals serve a maintenance function similar to the way a dental retainer helps preserve the improvement made on a child's teeth. Wearing a bifocal prescription will not create a dependency on the need for this type of lens.
It is also helpful to know that children adjust to wearing bifocals quite easily. Bifocal lenses for children are available in polycarbonate material, which is an important safety factor. They can also be obtained in a "no-line" form for those children or parents who are concerned about the appearance of lined lenses.
The conditions for which bifocals may be prescribed for children include impending or progressing nearsightedness, binocular vision disorders and visual dysfunction associated with desk or computer work,
Your COVD optometrist conducts a thorough examination to determine if bifocal lenses will benefit a child. Fellows of the College of Optometrists in vision Development (COVD) are certified in the diagnosis and management of children's vision problems. For further information, contact COVD or consult with your COVD optometrist.
Members of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD) are optometrists with a special interest In vision skills and the remediation of vision skill inefficiencies. Fellows of the College have certified their competency in this area. For more information contact COVD or consult with your COVD optometrist.
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