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    Reading Glasses

    Drugstore vs prescription. What to buy.

    Drugstore reading glasses

    • $10–$30 at any pharmacy.
    • Strengths +1.00 to +4.00.
    • Both eyes same prescription.
    • No prescription needed.
    • Good for casual reading.
    • Buy 3+ pairs — keep around the house.

    Which strength to buy

    • 40s: +1.00 to +1.50.
    • 50s: +1.50 to +2.00.
    • 60s: +2.00 to +2.50.
    • 70s+: +2.50 to +3.50.
    • Try in store — find clearest reading distance.
    • Strength may differ in each eye — see optometrist.

    When you need prescription

    • Astigmatism — drugstore won't correct.
    • Different strength each eye.
    • Reading + distance both needed (progressives).
    • Bifocals.
    • Eye conditions — cataracts, etc.
    • If drugstore feels "off" — see eye doctor.

    Smart strategies

    • Multiple pairs — bedside, kitchen, car, purse.
    • Magnetic neck holder — never lost.
    • Reading glasses lanyard.
    • Different strengths for different distances.
    • Computer glasses (lower strength) for screens.
    • Sunglass readers for outside.

    Best places to buy

    • CVS, Walgreens — pricey but convenient.
    • Dollar Tree, Family Dollar — $1–$5 each, good for backup.
    • Costco — quality readers in 3-packs.
    • Amazon — wide selection, cheaper.
    • Five Below — $5 reading glasses.
    • Eyebobs — designer readers if budget allows.

    Computer glasses

    • Slightly weaker than reading glasses.
    • Designed for 18–24 inches (computer distance).
    • Often blue-light filtering.
    • Reduces eye strain.
    • Helpful for hours of computer use.
    • $20–$40 for blue-light readers.

    Get a full eye exam first

    Before stocking up on drugstore readers, get a full eye exam annually after age 60. Many seniors think they just need readers when they actually have early cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration that need treatment. Once your eyes are checked, buy 5 pairs of $5 readers from the dollar store and scatter them throughout the house. The bedside, kitchen, and car pair will save you constant frustration.