5 presbyopia / Reading glasses myths debunked

Reading glasses have been the go-to fix for presbyopia for generations. But in today’s world—with new treatment options and technology—there’s still a lot of confusion and misinformation out there.

Let’s set the record straight. In this blog, we’ll debunk five common myths about presbyopia and reading glasses, and help you understand what’s really true.

Myth 1: Presbyopia means you’re going blind

False. Presbyopia is not a disease—it’s a normal part of ageing.

As we get older, the lens inside our eye loses flexibility, making it harder to focus on nearby objects. That’s presbyopia.

You’re not losing your eyesight. Your eye is simply changing how it focuses. With the right solution, your vision can be clear and comfortable again.

Myth 2: Reading glasses make your eyes worse over time

False. Wearing reading glasses does not weaken your eyes.

Reading glasses simply help your eyes do what they’re struggling with—focus up close. They don’t make your natural lens stiffer or speed up presbyopia.

Your eyes might feel more dependent on glasses over time, but that’s just because presbyopia naturally progresses as you age—not because of the glasses themselves.

Myth 3: Over-the-counter readers are just as good as prescription glasses

Not always true. Shop-bought reading glasses can work in the short term—but they’re not tailored to your eyes.

Here’s what they don’t do:

• Account for differences in vision between your eyes
• Consider your existing distance prescription
• Fit your eyes accurately in terms of lens alignment

For occasional use, readers might be fine. But for full-time comfort and clarity, prescription glasses or a more permanent solution is better.

Myth 4: You just have to live with reading glasses forever

False. Reading glasses are not your only option.

Today’s treatments include:

• Multifocal contact lenses
• Laser blended vision
• Lens replacement with multifocal IOLs.

These solutions can restore clear near vision and reduce or eliminate your dependence on reading glasses altogether.

At Sharmina Khan Eye Clinic, we help patients explore these advanced options every day.

Myth 5: Presbyopia is the same for everyone

Not true. Presbyopia affects people differently based on:

• Eye shape and prescription
• Lifestyle and visual demands
• Underlying eye health.

Some people adapt quickly to readers. Others struggle and want something more permanent. That’s why a personalised approach is so important.

Bonus Myth: You’re too young for presbyopia

False. While presbyopia usually starts in your 40s, some people experience symptoms earlier—especially if they have high hyperopia (farsightedness).

If you’re finding it harder to read or focus up close—even in your late 30s—it could be early presbyopia.

What you can do about it

The first step is a professional eye exam to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of blurry near vision.

Then, you can explore your options. Glasses work well for many people—but if you're ready for something more lasting, modern treatments can restore near vision without constant reliance on glasses.

Don’t let outdated myths hold you back from seeing clearly. Presbyopia is normal, manageable, and—thanks to modern advances—no longer a sentence to years of reading glasses.

If you’re curious about your options, take our free suitability self-test today and find out what might work best for your eyes and lifestyle.