How to Get Used to Wearing New Glasses

Getting new glasses can be exciting, but many people face an adjustment period filled with discomfort. Whether you’re switching to a stronger prescription, trying a new lens type, or even selecting a different frame style, experiencing challenges is common. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons behind the adjustment period, common issues you might encounter, and detailed tips to make the transition smoother.

Why Adjusting to New Glasses Takes Time

New Prescription
Adjusting to a new prescription is one of the primary reasons why many people struggle with new glasses. Even minor changes can significantly impact how your brain processes visual information. For instance, upgrading to high-index lenses, like 1.61 index or 1.67, offers sharper and clearer images, but they can initially cause slight distortion or dizziness as your eyes adapt to the new prescription.

Different Lens Types
If you’ve transitioned from single-vision lenses to bifocals or progressive lenses, you’ll need to learn how to navigate different sections of the lens for varying distances. This adjustment can feel strange, resulting in temporary disorientation. Over time, your eyes and brain will naturally adapt, allowing you to move seamlessly between the lens areas.

Frame Fit and Style
The shape, size, and weight of your new glasses can also affect the adjustment process. Heavier or wider frames may lead to discomfort and change how your lenses align with your eyes, which can take time to get used to. Consider practical accessories like glasses chains to help keep your glasses in place during the transition.

Different Lens Materials
Switching to a new lens material can affect your vision as well. For instance, high-index lenses are thinner and lighter but might feel different compared to standard plastic lenses. Your eyes will need time to adjust to the unique characteristics of the new material.

Adapting to Different Shapes and Sizes
If your new glasses feature a different shape or size, it may also contribute to your adjustment challenges. Frames that sit higher or lower on your nose or that have a different curvature can alter your visual field and the way light enters your eyes. This can lead to temporary discomfort as your brain adjusts to the new positioning.

Common Discomforts When Wearing New Glasses
During the adjustment period, you might experience several common symptoms, such as:

• Eye Strain:Your eyes work harder to adapt to the new lenses, leading to fatigue.
• Headaches:As your brain processes new visual input, headaches may occur.
• Blurred Vision:Blurriness, especially at the edges of your lenses, is common during the first few days.
• Dizziness or Feeling Off-Balance:This is particularly prevalent with stronger prescriptions or progressive lenses, where you may feel dizzy until your eyes adjust to the new focal points.

Tips to Adjust Faster to New Glasses

1. Wear Them Regularly
The best way to adapt to your new glasses is to wear them consistently. Frequent removal or switching back to your old pair can prolong the adjustment period. Start by wearing your new glasses for shorter periods and gradually increase the time as your comfort level improves. Aim for several hours a day initially, and soon you’ll find yourself forgetting about the change altogether.

2. Start in Comfortable Settings
If you’re feeling dizzy or disoriented, begin wearing your glasses in familiar, low-pressure environments. Start indoors, where the lighting is stable and you can focus on nearby objects without the distractions of a bustling world outside. Gradually incorporate your new glasses into different settings:

• At Home:Engage in simple activities like reading, watching TV, or cooking. This helps your eyes adjust without overwhelming them.
• During Short Walks:Once you feel comfortable indoors, take your glasses outside for a short walk. This will help you get used to the change in depth perception and distance.
• Familiar Activities:Try wearing your glasses while doing chores or activities you already know well. The familiarity will ease the transition.

3. Take Breaks
If discomfort arises, it’s perfectly fine to take short breaks. Allow your eyes a few minutes to rest before putting your glasses back on. Here are a few strategies for effective breaks:

• 20-20-20 Rule:Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps reduce eye strain.
• Short Intervals:If you’re wearing your glasses for extended periods, consider taking a break after every hour. During these breaks, close your eyes for a minute or two or gently rub them to relieve tension.
• Mindfulness:Use breaks to practice mindfulness. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing to help relax your mind and reduce any discomfort.

4. Be Patient
Adjusting to new glasses takes time, and everyone’s experience is different. Give your eyes the time they need to adapt. It’s normal to feel discomfort for a few days to a week. If you find yourself frustrated, remind yourself that your eyes will adjust, and the clearer vision you will have once you acclimate is worth it.

5. Communicate with Your Optician
If you have specific concerns or questions about your new glasses, don’t hesitate to reach out to your optician. They can offer valuable insights, check the fit of your frames, and address any issues related to your prescription. Here’s how to make the most of your communication:

• Keep Notes:Jot down any specific symptoms you’re experiencing, like headaches or dizziness, so you can discuss them clearly with your optician.
• Ask About Adjustments:Inquire whether your glasses can be adjusted for a better fit or if a small tweak to the prescription might be necessary.
• Follow-Up Appointments:If discomfort persists, schedule a follow-up appointment. Sometimes, adjustments can be made to enhance comfort and improve your experience.

6. Use Accessories for Comfort
Incorporate practical accessories to enhance your wearing experience. For example, using a glasses chain can help keep your glasses secure and prevent them from slipping. This not only adds convenience but also minimizes distractions while you adjust. Accessories can also be a fun way to personalize your style!

7. Explore Progressive Lenses Gradually
If you’ve switched to progressive lenses, take the time to practice using them. Start with simple tasks like looking at your phone or reading a book. As you become more comfortable, gradually incorporate activities that require more complex visual adjustments, such as driving or sports.

When to Seek Help
If discomfort persists after two weeks, consider visiting your optician. Ongoing headaches, blurry vision, or pain may indicate that your prescription needs adjustment or that your frames require a better fit. Sometimes, minor tweaks in lens positioning or prescription strength can significantly enhance comfort.

Conclusion
Adjusting to new glasses may take time, but by wearing them consistently, starting in familiar environments, and being patient, the discomfort will fade. For those transitioning to high-index lenses, such as 1.61 vs. 1.67, the adaptation process may take a bit longer, but the benefits of clearer vision and lighter frames will ultimately be worth it. Remember, practical accessories like glasses chains can enhance your experience by keeping your frames secure as you adjust.

By following these tips and allowing yourself time to adapt, you can make the transition to your new glasses a positive experience. Clearer vision awaits!