Effect Of Bifocal Vs. Progressive Spectacles On Near And Distance Visual Tasks In Presbyopic Patients

Abstract

This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based comparative study evaluated the effectiveness of bifocal and progressive addition lenses (PALs) in enhancing visual performance and comfort among presbyopic patients with myopia. A total of 308 participants aged 40 years and above, with a confirmed diagnosis of both presbyopia and myopia, and who had used either bifocal or PAL spectacles for at least one month, were enrolled. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing visual satisfaction, adaptability, reading ease, distance clarity, and overall visual comfort. Key findings indicated that PAL users experienced superior visual outcomes compared to bifocal users, particularly in intermediate and distance tasks. In one instance, a majority of PAL users reported always having clear vision for intermediate objects, while over 80 bifocal users stated they never experienced such clarity. Similarly, when assessing driving difficulty, 60% of bifocal users reported always having trouble driving with their lenses, whereas over 60% of PAL users reported no such difficulty. These differences underscore the limitations of bifocal lenses in providing smooth visual transitions and maintaining clarity across multiple distances. The continuous gradation of lens power in PALs offers a more natural visual experience, reducing abrupt image jumps and improving adaptability in daily activities. Statistical analysis using chi-square and ANOVA tests further validated the significance of these findings. Overall, this study supports the clinical preference for progressive lenses in presbyopic myopic patients, highlighting their role in enhancing functional vision and quality of life. Future research may explore long-term compliance and adaptation trends in a larger, more diverse population.