Aging brings with it a host of changes, some more noticeable and impactful than others. One common issue that many people, including myself, face as they approach their 40s is the need for reading glasses. This condition, known as presbyopia (or ‘Lo Far’ in Cantonese), is a natural part of aging. It happens because the lens in our eyes slowly change over the years, becoming stiffer and altering in shape and size. This transformation makes it difficult to see fine print, a challenge that can be particularly frustrating in our increasingly digital world.
This is why you might find yourself holding your phone or a book at arm’s length to read small text. I do that all the time! For many, this marks the first sign of presbyopia and the start of a new dependency on reading glasses.
Welcome to the senior citizens club!
Like myself, you might have noticed this difficulty in reading fine print, especially on your phone, as you hit the big 4-0. In my case, the condition only worsened over time, and soon enough, I found myself needing to carry reading glasses wherever I go. From shopping trips, where I need to read ingredient lists, to dining out and struggling to see the menu, presbyopia can be a constant inconvenience. It has been an inconvenience for my hubby and me, especially when we need to read restaurant menus with super small prints and forget to bring our reading glasses out.
I found myself frequently forgetting to bring my glasses along, which led to the practical solution of buying several pairs of cheap reading glasses. I strategically placed these around my home and in various bags to ensure I always have a pair on hand. This way, I have one in the bedroom, one at my work desk, and one in each of my bags.
Initially, I bought a pair of inexpensive reading glasses from the local morning market. Seeing how effective they were, I decided to purchase two more pairs online from Lazada from a seller in China. These glasses, costing less than RM10 each, have been a lifesaver. Despite their low price, they effectively help me read small print. The ones from China even have a power of + 150 and feature anti-blue light technology, which is an added bonus for someone who spends a lot of time in front of screens.
These affordable glasses have significantly improved my day-to-day life. I no longer have to worry about not being able to read menus, and ingredient lists, scroll my phone without feeling giddy, or read important documents. By keeping multiple pairs in different locations, I’ve made sure that presbyopia doesn’t hinder my daily activities.
While the downside of aging includes conditions like presbyopia, finding practical solutions can make a big difference. Embracing these changes and adapting with affordable and convenient options, like buying multiple pairs of reading glasses, allows us to maintain our quality of life. Aging is inevitable, but with a few adjustments, we can continue to enjoy the activities and experiences that matter most.
By the way, the font size on my desktop PC and email have also been enlarged, and so has the font on my phone. In addition to all these, I also have a magnifying glass on my work desk and bedroom 🤓
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