My major complaint with getting older is needing reading glasses. I can tell you if a an eagle a half mile off is missing a tail feather, but I can't read a map without some "cheaters."

I normally pack a pair of the tiny reading glasses that come in a plastic tube and I found some today that have an LED light built into the end of the tube. I use the tube for wrapping my duct tape supply around as well.

Edited by dwambaugh on 07/22/2011 20:50:47 MDT.

Dale, Where did you find the tube/LED light combination? Nice multi-tasking with the duct tape. Whether I want to admit it or not, I seem to need those cheaters as well. Carol

I found them new in a Goodwill store. They had a display box full of them at the "treasures" counter for $5.95 a pair.

These are the same-- at 3x the price!
http://www.aclens.com/da.asp?ID=7249

While searching for those, I came on these keyring readers: http://www.visiondirect.com/la/product/default.asp?pid=91030&catid=11538&aid=337033&aparam=keyvision_llc_keyring_rea

For multiple use, you can get stick on bifocals for your sunglasses. I have some of these and they really work:
http://www.shoplet.com/office/db/VIIOPT200G.html

Costco has them in 3 packs for the best price I've found. They have several styles. The plastic ones are really light at 0.5 oz too.

Dale or Carol, Please remind about these reading glasses. What info do they/you need to know to get the right ones. Isn't it something like age of onset and current age, or how many years since reading glasses were first required? It's supposedly fairly consistent as to how this need progresses with aging. One of the few things most people with this need don't require an eye exam for, if i understand it correctly.

Edited by pj on 03/07/2006 11:05:19 MST.

I'll start and end this with the same caveat-- get an eye exam.

Most states don't require an eye exam for reading glasses.

They are for presbyopia-- the gradual thickening of the lens (see http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/presbyopia.htm ), which causes it to lose flexibility and you can't focus as close as you could when younger. So you hold things out farther to read them and the text gets too small or your arms get too short.

If you go to the drugstore, you can try on increasing strengths until you can read normal size type at a normal reading distance. If they are too strong, you can still read, but you have a more limited range. You can use stronger glasses for working on small objects if you are doing something crafts work or repairs.

The glasses start at 1.0 and go up in 0.25 increments. I started using 1.25 glasses about five years ago and I'm up to 2.0's now (I'll be 52 in a few weeks).

Like I said, I have excellent vision at distance-- always have, but I can't read a map or GPS without the glasses.

I figured the Creator gave us presbyopia so we wouldn't notice when our spouses age-- we look nice and smooth up close with our glasses off :)

Get an eye exam! There may be other underlying reasons for changes in your vision and you should get them checked once a year anyway, particularly as you age.

"What's that you say, sonny?..."

Many thanks, pj.

The Costco display has a view thru device that helps you determine the magnification you need. Quite helpful really.

Ah, I see. 20yrs ago, the local pharmacy had a rack of reading glasses with a chart. All I recall, and this is not clear, is that you just found your current age on the chart and how many years you've needed reading glasses and they gave you a number (maybe it was the diopter reading, e.g. 1.25, etc) and then you picked a style you liked with that number. An older co-worker at the time used this system for years. Apparently, if this was you only vision problem, progression of presbyopia was supposed to be pretty typical. At least, that's how this system figured it. Me, I've got a vision plan, so I can see an Optometrist.

Carol:

I am scouring the internet for this game and came across a post you made in 2006 -do you still have this game - and would you be willing to sell it to me? Thank you so much for your time:

Best Regards, Neil Broten

Game post below.

( ccorbridge - M)

Locale:
Southern Oregon

Himalaya Card Game on 03/29/2006 07:43:26 MST
New, never played game for campers or backpackers.


A game of high adventure cleverly disguised as cards. You'll face whiteouts, avalanche and frostbite, risk taking the shortcut to camp. Every climber should carry 'HIMALAYA' in their pocket just in case things get dull.

Retail $12 plus shipping
Asking $5 plus shipping

http://www.campingsurvival.com/hicaga.html

Hi Neil.

Try this:
http://cgi.ebay.com/1990-HIMALAYA-CARD-GAME-100-COMPLETE-EXCELLENT_W0QQitemZ370099914565QQcmdZViewItem?

The need for close-up vision correction usually happens in the early 40's, when the ability to change focus diminishes. When you find your arms are too short to hold the book far enough away to be able to read it clearly, or that, if you're near-sighted, taking off your glasses works better, it's time to see your optometrist for a proper diagnosis and prescription. Drugstore glasses (or reading without glasses for us myopic folk) are fine for occasional use but for prolonged use can cause eyestrain. I tried the old-fashioned bifocals and fought with them for a year--it seemed that the line was always where I wanted to look. I then bit the bullet for progressive lenses, which are far better. YMMV; a friend never could adapt to the progressives and preferred bifocals with the line!

A couple of things sent me to drugstore reading glasses. First, I've found that a pair of glasses with just my distance prescription are far safer for hiking--I can see the ground in front of me clearly without having to dip my head to look through the upper half of the glasses. And since my cataract surgery with artificial lens implants (which brought my vision without glasses to almost normal), I have poor close-up vision without glasses. I also found that optometrists are really reluctant to make the close-up portion of the progressive lenses strong enough to read really fine print (as on maps). Combining these two means that for map-reading on hikes I do better to get drugstore reading glasses that are one step stronger than the close-up prescription the optometrist gives me.

I do not, of course, do much reading when I'm backpacking. If I did, I'd work with the optometrist to get a pair of prescription reading glasses that would work for the fine print on maps and such.

There are various options available for contact lens wearers, but I haven't explored them.

Edited by hikinggranny on 11/04/2008 14:33:59 MST.

http://select-a-vision.com/shop/product_info.php?products_id=77

I bought my first pair of these at Walmart. Then, my Walmart stopped carrying them. When I found their website, I ordered a pair or each of the strengths stronger than what I was currently needing. I'm gonna need those stronger lenses eventually, and I really like these. I'm covered for a long time, and I only paid shipping once. The green ones tend to disappear on your face, if you're vain. They'll also disappear if you lay or drop them on the ground. They weigh a mere 0.3 oz. so they're comfortable enough you can forget you're wearing them. I've never broken a pair in 4 years, but reading isn't a very rough and tough endeavor for me. The company also has titanium models listed on the site if you're a aging super hero.

Edited by ScottFree on 04/05/2009 19:39:47 MDT.

What I do is try on the reading glasses holding a bottle of medication from the medication aisle, whichever one I can find with the tiniest type. If I can read the bottle, those are the glasses for me.

Scott,
I also have a pair of the Select-a-vision Flexi-Lights purchased at WM and like them. In addition to backpacking, I usually carry them in a jacket pocket about town.

However, for packpacking, I have been concerned with breaking the glasses if the case is not used so I carry the glasses in the case in a belt pocket. I'm not happy with the case size and have considered getting these glasses:

http://www.i4ulenses.com/

They certainly look more streamlined but don't know how effective they'd be. I'd only be using intermittently for map reading and detail on a GPS screen.

Siegmund- Those are cool! Or as cool as reading glasses can really be.

Those i4u glasses work great.

I have a set of the high power magnifiers also, that I use
around the house all the time for splinters and what not.

I think they would not be very comfortable for long term book reading (they kind of pinch off your nose a little), but for occasional use, like map reading and stuff on a hike, they are great.

My buddy liked them so much, he bought a pair too, and is happy with them.

Get the hard plastic case with them, and you need not worry about hurting them, even in your back pocket.

Edited by Thangfish on 04/22/2009 16:51:22 MDT.

PJ wrote:
Re: glasses on 03/08/2006 01:09:33 MST Reply Report Post Print View

Ah, I see. 20yrs ago, the local pharmacy had a rack of reading glasses with a chart. All I recall, and this is not clear, is that you just found your current age on the chart and how many years you've needed reading glasses and they gave you a number (maybe it was the diopter reading, e.g. 1.25, etc) and then you picked a style you liked with that number. An older co-worker at the time used this system for years. Apparently, if this was you only vision problem, progression of presbyopia was supposed to be pretty typical. At least, that's how this system figured it. Me, I've got a vision plan, so I can see an Optometrist.

=====================================

Forget about the 20 year old "memories" of "Standardized Reading Glasses". charts.

Nearly the very best thing is to have some reading material in front of you and READ.

It is probably better to have your eyes examined and a prescription written. Depending upon how you use the glasses, you may elect to use different strengths of eyeglasses for reading and computer useage.

I have had 2.5 diopter lenses prescribed for reading bifocals and the eye doctor is pleased to know that I use 1.75 diopters lenses for the longer reading distance of the computer. I also use 3.5 diopter lenses for occasional very close detailed work. This is fine with the eye doctor.

I suggest you have a chat with your eye doctor about the desire to have different "near" glasses for different "near" activities.

You might also ask him or her about the "usefulness" of "standardized aging eyeglasses charts", and then you can let go of the old 20 year old memory.

My 55 year old memory has my father purchasing his reading glasses at the Woolworth Dime Store, and he just looked at his hand to see how well he could see his fingerprints and creases at different distances. Later he bought prescription trifocals because in his work he needed "Far", "Near" and "Very Near" seeing abilities and could only easily carry one set of glasses on the construction sites.

I know a surgeon at the top of his game who suddenly had visual problems and no longer can do surgery. He had a problem that could of easily been caught with regular eye exams - glaucoma. He'll never do surgery again. Don't just get reading glasses get those eye exams at least beginning at 50 and then regularly after that.

I got a pair of i4U glasses...worked great for my through hike. Used the regular case that came with and kept them it safe in my shoulder pocket. thanks for the suggestion BPLers

the Costco readers (Desgin Optices) are very light- 0.3 oz, but their case is not- 1.2 oz

I've been looking for a light case, in the meantime I've been wrapping them w/ a small optic cleaning cloth and a rubber band 0.1 oz- handy to clean my sunglasses as well, but not overly protective- albeit they are relatively hardy glasses

Edited by mtwarden on 08/15/2009 21:02:38 MDT.

They are a single piece of plastic with a springy bridge so that they clip on to your nose. Not that badly really, just wouldn't wear them on a first date.

They are designed to fit in your wallet. I keep a pair in my compact digital camera pouch. Can't see those blasted displays w/o them. I think youngsters shouldn't be allowed to design cameras. Only old folks like me.

^ looks like these might be what your talking about- look pretty light/compact

http://www.ballbeauty.com/wallet_reading_glasses.htm

Edited by mtwarden on 08/30/2009 11:27:15 MDT.

I just bought a three pack of these (e-bay w/ free shipping)

while these are NOT going to substitute my normal readers at home that have temples, these are going to work just fine for map reading, compass reading, etc in the back country

weight is only 3.5 grams, the little wallet sleeve they are stowed in is 4.0 grams

I'm going to stow mine in a small optic cloth that weighs 4.0 grams as well- can clean my sunglasses, camera w/ it as well

I bought some glasses like those for our trip in Switzerland.
They worked fine in the plane from Australia to Europe, and they worked fine the first evening in a refuge.
But they failed miserably and totally once we started walking.
Why?
Combine sweat and sunscreen with something which inherently relies on skin friction to stay on, and ... they popped straight off. Every time. My wife was greatly amused.
I resorted to cheap UL specs.

Cheers

Roger, thanks for the report- that would have been my problem after leaving my good ones home-

I more or less agree on the "pinch on nose bridge" type of mini-reading glasses that can fit in a wallet. Thanks (and I do mean thanks) to the link given earlier, I also ordered something like three sets of these, and after some experimentation I think I'll be fine with these replacing my formerly "lighter than usual" reading glasses. The ones I had been carrying were in a small metal tube (smaller than normal drug store reading glasses), and are basically normal reading glasses but with less vertical glass. I would have to hold my head at just the right angle and get in the habit of keeping it there in order to read.

In that context, the pinch-on-nose-bridge type aren't necessarily a step down so much as a step sideways. More ~glass (lense anyway) to see through, but at the cost of a less comfortable way of wearing them. Since they are lighter and pack small, I think I can get used to them.

Note that I don't tend to want to use these when on the trail; it's possible that will change as my vision continues to degrade (one foot on a banana peel and the other one ...). But for now, at least, sweat isn't an issue for me, but a good thing to keep in mind.

I'll third I4U lenses (i4ulenses.com). I've used them since 2003. They are about the lightest, most compact and durable reading glasses anywhere. I attach a string and an alligator clip and just let them dangle when not in use.

Happened to me about age 46 or so. I have two pair of Rx glasses: one for home, one for work.

For BP, check my latest Rx, then got the closest approximation down at Longs / CVS for about $15.

They are a necessity for fishing.

My close up vision started to go a few years back. I got a credit car sized magnifier lense that stays in my wallet for help with the menus, quick reads when I'm out, that sort of thing. I also keep a small rectangular pocket magnifier in the car for reading maps and such. At home I'm using a pair of 1.0 readers from the drug store. Not great for prolonged periods so I plan to change those very soon.

I'm heading to the eye doc next week for an annual checkup. I plan to ask for a prescription for a pair of 1.0 readers and spend the $$ for a custom pair that work for prolonged periods. Some things about aging are great, but the eyes are just not one of them.

John,

If your looking for a custom pair of glasses and don't want to spend the money you might consider http://www.zennioptical.com/cart/home.php, I've used them a few times and the quality is decant for the money. I think you can still get a complete pair of custom glasses for 8$ depending on materials.

All the best, Nathan Stebner

Thanks Nathan!

Wow.

Awesome to be able to get a pair or two of backup eyeglasses for cheap.

Thanks for the link.

zennioptical ++

I'm Very happy with the frames and lenses I've bought from them.
Never had an issue with my prescription being off, have been able to alter orders, and they come in a light hardshell case.

I just got it all wrapped in one set of glasses from Costco

Progressive Lens Bi-focals (ie: no line)
Transitions - They get dark in sunlight.
Scratch proof
Anti-glare.

These really do the trick. I do have problems occasionally with the sweat issue though. I just put on a strap to keep them from falling into the dirt.

This has been an increasing problem, for me, since turning 40 that I just found a solution to. I've been wearing glasses for 30+ yrs for an astigmatism, my near distance did not require correction till I approached 40. Single vision lenses or contacts were the norm until a few years ago the I started wearing Bifocals. As I aged my script kept increasing in power and I found it harder to adjust to the lenses with each increase. Add to that our recreational activities (sun screen and sweat made it impossible to keep glasses on as the thickness and weight increased) I simply gave up.

Recently my wife notice that my depth perception was getting worse and she started getting nervous when I was driving so she insisted I do something.

Not wanting to do the bifocals again, I started looking into multifocal contacts and I made an appointment to be fitted. I was disappointed to find out that multifocals wouldn't work for me (they have come a long way but aren't quite there yet, soon I hope)

So plan B. My Dr suggested, because of my history with bifocals and our activities, I try single vision contacts again with readers for near vision.

So far it has worked better than I expected. I am now farsighted and use readers only when needed. I recently ordered a set of sun glasses from The Rudy Project with interchangeable lenses, a couple of the lenses have the reading script in the bottom wih no correction in the top.

Hello Folks,

I'm a newbie but I wanted to share an image of something that might benefit those in need of some functional reading glasses. Please take a look.

Just wanted to see if anything like this would interest you guys. Flip-Frames will be coming out early 2012. It will come in multiple powers and styles. You can even use your own prescription.

Feedback would be appreciated.

Are you commercially affiliated with this company?

--B.G.--

I am the inventor and creator of these glasses (Flip-Frames).

4 years was spent developing these glasses for the sole purpose of addressing similar issues addressed on this forum thread.

They are not being commercially sold at this time.

I hope there isn't an issue with the post. If so, sincerest apologizes and please take the necessary course of action.

Best,

Brian Park

Make them bifocals and photochromatic for outdoors use.

Eyeglass frames for photographers (not necessarily reading glasses) have right and left sides that can be flipped up or down independently of one another.

--B.G.--

I'll keep everyone posted once we retail them. If Flip-Frames had the lenses you suggested, would those in your field purchase them?

Hi Guys!

As promised, I have some new information regarding Flip Frames. I cut up short video of my father (creator) explaining why he created Flip Frames in addition to some new pics and vids.

You can check them out at facebook.com/flipframes

Our goal is to get as many people as possible to 'like' the product. The more 'likes' we get, the more confidence it gives us to move forward with this project.

Again, we would greatly appreciate your support, so please 'like' the page to help get the word out there about these amazing reading glasses. I'll keep you posted on the manufacturing process and future design styles.

Best,

Brian

P.S. We're now in the process of creating Flip Frames 'Goggles'. Can you imagine the convenience that would be bring to hard-working manufacturing professionals!

Really could use your thoughts on our Flip-Frames launch. Check out the video at:

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...ewear?ref=live

and for information, visit

www.facebook.com/flipframes (Be sure to 'like' the page)

We need massive financial and word of mouth support to get this project going. Please help us... we know our glasses are going to make your lives so much easier!!! - Brian

The Dollar Tree has reading glasses up to 3:50 diopter for ONE DOLLAR!

They're just as good as any other reading glasses I've used over the last 30 years.

If your eyes are the same, and you don't have a severe astigmatism $1 glasses work.

For the rest of us, go to http://zennioptical.com, plug in your Rx and inter-pupilary distance, and in three weeks you'll have UL glasses delivered to your door for as little as $15. My wife's "designer" glasses cost $35.

+1 on the glaucoma check.


[I have no vested interest in Zenni, but I do have about 6 pair of glasses spread between the house, car, the bike, and fishing kit.]

Edited by greg23 on 06/18/2012 22:09:12 MDT.

> in three weeks you'll have UL glasses delivered to your door
I don't think it took Zenni that long. About half maybe.
I have bought two pairs so far: one using my driving prescription and one as readers to go over contact lenses.
The driving glasses turned out to be every bit as good as the $250+ pair from the optometrist. Very similar memory-Ti frames, but 1/10 the cost (literally).

Interesting.

(Yes, +2 on the glaucoma test.)

Cheers

Edited by rcaffin on 06/19/2012 03:57:15 MDT.

I have used these stuck onto the bottom of my sunglasses for years as stealth magnification. I use contacts for distance but my up close has been slowly doing the "age dance". Since these are sold in pairs you can even use two different magnification adjustments to compensate if you need to. I have found these sold at the local CVX store but I usually hunt the net for the best price when I need to (and haven't for for a while). Durability is excellent and I have never had a lens fall off unless purposely soaked in water to remove them. Brief exposure to water hasn't been a problem.

http://optx2020.com/hydrotac.aspx