How to Know If You Need Glasses

According to the American Optometric Association, up to 16 million Americans live with undiagnosed vision impairments—a shockingly high number. For many people, the reason their vision problems remain untreated isn’t due to unwillingness or inability to seek out vision care; rather, it’s because they simply aren’t aware that they need glasses. 

For example, a child might grow up with a vision problem and not realize it. Particularly if their vision impairment isn’t a severe one, they might just think that blurry objects and trouble reading are normal. Alternatively, an older individual might not realize that they need glasses as a result of natural vision changes over time, especially if they never did previously. 

When to Get Glasses

Even if your vision is good now, it’s important to be aware of the signs that you (or someone else) might need glasses. While symptoms will vary from person to person, the following list of basic sight-based indications will help in figuring out how to know if you need glasses:

• blurry vision
• double vision
• objects that appear distorted or are not clearly defined
• objects or lights that seem to have auras or halos around them

In addition to (or instead of) sight-based indications, some people may also notice certain behavioral habits or symptoms that manifest in other parts of your body, such as: 

• headaches when reading or trying to focus on something
• a feeling of pressure behind your eyes
• frequently squinting when trying to read or look closely at something
• eye fatigue or eye strain, sometimes indicated by rubbing your eyes or wanted to keep them closed
• often holding books or screens at arm’s length (or at a very close distance)

If any of the above sound familiar to you, it may be an indication that you’re experiencing a vision problem and should schedule a vision exam. 

OneSight is on a mission to help the world see better by bringing affordable vision care to those who need it most. Since 1988, we’ve reached 52+ million people worldwide by distributing eyeglasses to those who need them most and providing ongoing access to vision care through permanent vision centers. Our strategy is focused on both meeting immediate needs and establishing long-term solutions, and involves a combination of charitable clinics and sustainable vision centers. Contact us for more information about how you can make a difference in ending the vision care crisis, or consider donating to support our work.