Have you noticed that reading small print isn’t as effortless as it used to be? Perhaps you find yourself holding a menu farther away, adjusting the brightness on your phone, or needing more light to read comfortably. These are common changes that often occur gradually and are frequently linked to presbyopia — the natural change in near vision that typically begins in your 40s.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common signs you may need reading glasses, explain why near vision changes with age, and provide a simple at-home test you can try today. Whether you’ve worn glasses before or not, these tips will help you decide when it’s time to schedule an eye exam — and how to choose reading glasses that fit your needs.

Quick Self-Check — Top Signs at a Glance

Not sure if it’s time for reading glasses? Here’s a quick list of the most common indicators. If you experience more than one, it’s worth arranging a comprehensive eye exam:

Blurry text at normal reading distance
Holding books, menus, or your phone farther away to focus
Eye strain after reading or close-up work
Headaches that set in during or after near tasks
Needing brighter light for reading or sewing
Difficulty focusing in dim environments
Increasing font size on your phone or tablet
Squinting or rubbing your eyes more than usual

You’ll find more detail — along with examples of how these signs might appear in everyday life — in the next section.

Why Does Near Vision Change After 40?

If your close-up vision has been clear for decades, it can be frustrating when it begins to blur. The most common reason is presbyopia — a natural, age-related change in your eyes that usually starts between ages 40 and 45.

Inside your eye, the lens works much like a camera’s zoom function, bending to focus on objects at varying distances. Over time, the lens becomes less flexible, and the surrounding muscles cannot adjust its shape as effectively. As a result, focusing on close objects — such as a book, phone screen, or sewing needle — takes more effort and may eventually require visual aids.

It’s important to note:

Presbyopia is not a disease; it is a normal part of aging.
It will affect everyone at some stage, even those who have never worn glasses before.
The change occurs gradually, so symptoms can be subtle in the beginning.

This natural shift explains why reading glasses, or other near-vision solutions, become necessary for so many people after the age of 40.

If you’d like to learn how presbyopia compares with other common vision conditions, such as hyperopia (farsightedness), check out our guide: Hyperopia vs Presbyopia: Causes, Symptoms & Best Correction Options.

Detailed Signs You Need Reading Glasses

If you identified with the quick self-check above, these detailed explanations will help you recognise whether it’s time to consider reading glasses.

Sign

Example in Daily Life

Why It Happens

1. Blurry text at normal reading distance

Words lose sharpness on a page or screen, even if distance vision is clear.

The eyes can no longer bend light precisely enough for close-up focus.

2. Holding books or devices at arm’s length

Moving your phone or book farther away to bring text into focus.

Compensating for reduced ability to focus up close.

3. Eye strain after close-up work

Eyes feel tired or sore after reading, sewing, or using a smartphone.

The focusing muscles are working harder than before.

4. Headaches after near tasks

Tension headaches around the temples or forehead after reading fine print.

Prolonged focusing effort without visual support.

5. Needing brighter light to read

Turning on a desk lamp or using stronger lighting to read comfortably.

Dim lighting makes it harder to maintain focus.

6. Difficulty focusing in dim environments

Struggling to read menus or labels in low-light settings.

Reduced focusing ability becomes more noticeable in dark conditions.

7. Increasing font size on devices

Adjusting phone or tablet settings to enlarge text.

A response to blurred small print.

8. Removing distance glasses to read

Taking off your glasses improves clarity for close-up tasks.

Early presbyopia changes the range at wh

Near-Vision Test You Can Do at Home

An eye exam is the best and most reliable way to check your vision, but you can try a quick self-check at home.

Hold a page with small print (8–10 pt font) at a comfortable reading distance about 35–40 cm (14–16 inches) in good light. If the text appears blurry or you need to adjust the distance to bring it into focus, your near vision may not be as clear as it could be. You might also notice differences when reading in dimmer light or when covering one eye at a time.

Over-the-Counter vs. Prescription Reading Glasses — Key Differences

When you decide to get reading glasses, you can choose between over-the-counter (OTC) readers and prescription readers.

  
      Feature
      OTC Readers
      Prescription Readers
    
      Lens Power
      Same power in both lenses
      Custom power for each eye
    
      Fit
      One-size-fits-all
      Custom-fitted to your face
    
      Quality
      Basic lenses, may distort vision
      High-quality lenses with coatings (anti-glare, scratch resistance, blue light)
    
      Eye Health Check
      None
      Includes a comprehensive eye exam
    
      Best For
      Occasional use
      Everyday or prolonged use

In summary: OTC readers can work for quick, occasional tasks, but they are not customised to your eyes and won’t correct for differences between them. For clear, comfortable vision and reassurance about your eye health, prescription reading glasses remain the best choice.

FAQ

Q1. At what age do you usually need reading glasses?
Most people notice near-vision changes between ages 40 and 45 due to presbyopia.

Q2. How do I know if I need reading glasses?
Look for blurry close-up text, the need to hold items farther away, eye strain, and headaches after near work.

Q3. Will wearing reading glasses make my eyes weaker?
No. They simply make focusing easier and reduce strain on the eyes.

Q4. Can I just buy reading glasses from the pharmacy?
Yes, but OTC readers have the same power in both lenses and won’t address astigmatism or prescription differences.

Q5. How often should I update my reading glasses?
Generally every 1–2 years, or sooner if symptoms change or your prescription is updated.

Keeping Your Close-Up Vision Clear and Comfortable

If you’ve noticed changes in your near vision — or it’s been over a year since your last eye exam — now is a good time to have your eyes checked.

At Chinook Optical, our experienced opticians will take the time to understand your needs, assess your near vision and overall eye health, and recommend lenses that give you clear, comfortable vision. We’ll also help you choose frames and lens options that suit your lifestyle and personal style.

With the right reading glasses, everyday activities like reading, working, and using your devices can be easier and more enjoyable. Book your consultation today and give your eyes the support they deserve.

Learn more

CHINOOK OPTICAL

Cart (0)