Glasses or spectacles are more than a fashion accessory. They are an essential tool for correcting your vision and improving your eye comfort. While there is no specific ‘expiry date’ for glasses, there are several reasons you may want to, or your optometrist in Canberra may recommend, changing your spectacle lenses or frames.
1. If you are experiencing eye strain, blurred vision or frequent headaches, visit your optometrist in Canberra before getting your new glasses dispensed.
2. If there has been a change to your glasses or spectacle lens prescription. Your optometrist in Canberra will discuss the relevance of these changes and how they would improve your vision in your new glasses.
3. If there has been any change in a prescription for a child, even if it’s only a small change, it is best to update your prescription glasses. In children under 8 years old, their eyes are at a key stage of visual development, and we want to ensure they see as clearly as possible during this stage. Wearing the most up-to-date spectacles with the current prescription improves the chance of proper vision development in children. As a parent, you play a crucial role in this process by ensuring your child’s glasses are always up-to-date.
4. Your current lenses are scratched or damaged, as this can reduce your vision and increase glare.
5. Your frame is in poor condition, as we do not want the frame to break, and you will be left with no glasses to wear.
If there’s a significant change in your lifestyle, it may affect your visual needs. For instance, if you start spending more time in front of a computer, you might need a different lens type or prescription. In such cases, it’s time to consider replacing your glasses.
While replacing glasses is sometimes unavoidable, you can get the most out of your current pair with proper care:
- Clean lenses with microfiber cloths
- Store glasses in their case when not in use
- Avoid leaving them in hot environments (e.g., car dashboards)
The Bottom Line
Your vision changes over time, and your glasses should keep up with your needs. The right time to replace your glasses depends on your vision, your lifestyle, and the condition of your current pair. A routine regular visit to your optometrist in Canberra not only allows your eye health to be monitored, but also ensures you are wearing the correct prescription and provides you with clear and comfortable vision. Remember, regular eye check-ups are your best defense against any potential vision problems.