Using Bifocal Reading Glasses

Telescopic glasses are among the latest of the numerous low vision aids used to help people in dealing with macular degeneration symptoms. While there is no cure for age related macular degeneration (AMD), there are macular degeneration treatments available that can assist such patients in maximizing what sight they do have; telescopic glasses are possibly among the most effective, both in terms of cost and effectiveness.

In some ways, these remarkable devices – also known as bioptics - are similar to bifocal reading glasses. They essentially work the same way; patients utilize these macular degeneration devices by tilting their heads forward. These particular macular degeneration devices are different however in their construction. Unlike bifocal reading glasses, which integrate two different prescriptions into single lenses, telescopic glasses actually consist of miniature telescopes that sit atop the frames.

The marvelous aspect of telescopic glasses – also known as bioptics - is the fact that they can be adjusted in the same way as many full-sized telescopes. As low vision aids for the relief of macular degeneration symptoms, telescopic glasses can be adjusted for a variety of activities requiring far, mid-range and near vision.

In fact, some states actually allow those who cannot pass the eye test for driving to operate a motor vehicle as long as bioptics are used. While there are usually restrictions, the use of telescopic glasses can help the patient to regain some measure of independence. These low vision aids are of great help in seeing road signs and other objects on the highway.

Telescopic glasses are like regular glasses, and if you plan on driving with them, you’ll need an optometrist’s prescription. Even if you’re not planning to operate an automobile (and admittedly, this is not appropriate for everyone – or even very many – people with macular degeneration symptoms), the use of these remarkable low vision aids can greatly add to your quality of life.

With the use of bioptics, people who use such macular degeneration devices can once again enjoy watching television and motion pictures, engage in artistic pursuits such as sculpture and painting or music requiring reading, and engage in their favorite sports.
Of course, because macular degeneration symptoms affect one’s central vision and because different activities in life require different kinds of vision, there is no one single solution. Bioptics are only one part of a comprehensive solution that will most likely require several different types of macular degeneration devices. Only your optometrist can advise you as to which of these prosthetic devices can be of most good in helping your particular case.