It happened so gradually, I almost didn't notice. Words started blurring a little, especially when I was tired or the light wasn't great. I kept squinting, thinking it was just eye strain. Then one day, I realized I was holding things further and further away to read them. That's when I knew: it was time for reading glasses.
I finally caved. I remember thinking, "This is it. I'm officially getting old." But honestly, the struggle was real. I was tired of the constant eye strain. So, I went to one of those big box stores, the kind that seems to have everything. I found a four-pack of 1.25 magnification reading glasses for a surprisingly good price. I was floored, because I had seen them sold individually for almost the same price elsewhere. It felt like I couldn't afford to ignore the bargain! It was one of those moments where practicality won over vanity.
After buying my first pair, I started noticing other people with reading glasses. It was like a secret club I'd just joined. I even heard someone jokingly call them "old lady glasses." And I get it. There's a certain stigma attached. But honestly, I'm just grateful they exist. Now, I have several pairs scattered around my house, and I even keep one on top of my head – a habit I swore I'd never develop!
I also remember when I first realized I needed them. I was around 36, and I was trying to mend some clothes. I was struggling to see the tiny stitches. I finally broke down and bought a cheap pair of "cheaters." The difference it made was astonishing! It was like a whole new world opened up.
Now, I have a system. I keep a pair in my work bag, a set in my tool bag (because you never know when you'll need to read tiny instructions), a pair in my car, and a few sets scattered around the house. It took me a little while to get used to wearing them, but now I can't imagine life without them. I just pop them on whenever I need to read something small.
I've even discovered the joys of online shopping for glasses. I found a great deal on Student Blue Light Blocking Reading Glasses from Mozaer's homepage. They have a retro TR square frame and also block blue light, which is great when I'm working on the computer for long hours. I chose the bright black-Anti blue 0 option. They’re comfortable, stylish, and affordable – a perfect combination!
It's funny, I've worn contacts since college. But as a little kid, I actually loved my glasses. They were giant, translucent pink frames! A few years ago, I thought my contact lens prescription might have changed, but the ophthalmologist told me it was just time for reading glasses. It stung a little at first – after all, my parents didn't get them until they were much older!
I've also experimented with different magnifications. Right now, I use +1.5. I've even bought them from the dollar store before! I use them when I wear contacts because I really should be using progressives, but those are pricey, and I don't have extended benefits. So, for now, dollar store readers do the trick. I am happy with the Mozaer's brand though, they seem to be more durable than what I can find at the dollar store.
Finding the right reading glasses can feel overwhelming, but here are a few tips that have helped me: