Are Your Cheater Glasses Cheating You?

Are you tired of struggling to read small print or straining your eyes to see clearly? Many people turn to over-the-counter reading glasses, also known as “cheater glasses” or “cheaters” as a quick fix. However, it’s crucial to consider the potential drawbacks before relying solely on your over-the-counter reading glasses. In this video, Dr. Tom Cunningham delves into the limitations of over-the-counter reading glasses and highlights the importance of personalized eyewear solutions for optimal vision and eye health.

Understanding the Limitations of Reading Glasses

senior hands holding a pair of reading glasses or cheater glasses

Over-the-counter reading glasses may seem convenient, but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Cunningham explains how these mass-produced glasses lack customization for people with individual vision needs. The generic magnification strengths may not accurately address your unique prescription requirements, potentially leading to strain, headaches, and even blurred vision.

The Importance of Eye Health

sliver of light shining on an open eye during an eye doctor eye exam

When it comes to vision care, it’s crucial to prioritize not just clear vision but also the overall health of your eyes. Over-the-counter reading glasses may provide a temporary fix for reading difficulties, but they do not address the underlying health of your eyes. Eye health goes beyond just seeing clearly; it involves detecting and managing potential eye diseases and monitoring changes in your vision.

Conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy may not present noticeable symptoms in their early stages, but they can be detected and managed through routine eye exams. Optometrists are trained to identify signs of these conditions and can provide appropriate referrals or treatments when necessary.

The Benefits of Professional Eye Exams

To truly achieve optimal vision and eye health, Dr. Cunningham emphasizes the importance of professional eye exams. During these comprehensive evaluations, your optometrist can assess your vision needs, detect any underlying eye conditions, and provide personalized solutions. Customized prescription glasses, tailored to your age and specific prescription, can offer clearer vision and provide long-term comfort. Things reading glasses can’t guarantee for the long term.

The Benefits of Customized Prescription Glasses vs Reading Glasses

several rows of prescription eyeglasses on bright plastic display at an eye doctors office

Unlike over-the-counter reading glasses, customized prescription glasses offer customers several advantages. Firstly, they are tailored specifically to your individual vision needs. Your optometrist will conduct a thorough examination, taking into account factors such as refractive errors, astigmatism, and other visual abnormalities. With this precise information, they can prescribe glasses that address your unique vision requirements, resulting in optimal clarity and comfort.

a clear plastic pair of eyeglasses with blue light coating sitting on an open laptop

Furthermore, customized prescription lenses provide superior lens types that are not available in over-the-counter reading glasses. For example, if you spend a significant amount of time outdoors, your eye doctor may recommend prescription sunglasses with built-in UV protection to shield your eyes from the sun and harmful ultraviolet rays. Additionally, lens coatings like blue light coating, can be applied to reduce glare, slightly enhance visual acuity, and minimize eye strain, especially in situations where you work on digital devices for extended periods.

Performance Eyecare: Your Trusted Vision Partner

In the quest for clear vision and optimal eye health, it’s essential to go beyond quick fixes, like over-the-counter reading glasses, and prioritize professional care. Over-the-counter reading glasses may seem convenient, but they come with limitations and potential risks. By seeking regular eye exams and investing in customized prescription glasses, you can enjoy the benefits of clear vision, accurate prescriptions, and the peace of mind that comes with proper eye health management.

With our team of skilled optometrists and state-of-the-art technology, we are committed to providing exceptional eye care services tailored to your needs. Our comprehensive eye exams go beyond just determining your prescription; we thoroughly assess the health of your eyes and address any concerns you may have.

We understand that everyone’s vision requirements are unique, which is why we offer a wide selection of eyewear styles and options, including high-quality plastic and metal frames, durable materials, and classic and stylish designs. Our one-year warranty on all eyeglasses ensures your investment is protected, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your eyewear choice.

If you’re ready to leave the limitation of over-the-counter reading glasses behind, schedule an appointment with one of our locations today!

Performance Eyecare is the Midwest’s largest, privately held eye care provider with nine locations in Missouri and Illinois.