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If you have a child who wears glasses, they may want to speak with the eye doctor about transitioning to contact lenses. While there is no steadfast rule on what age a child can wear contacts, there are factors to contemplate before making the switch. To make the most informed decision regarding your child’s eyewear, carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks of contact lenses.

What Age Do Most Kids Get Contacts?

More than half of eye doctors think it’s appropriate to introduce soft contact lenses to kids between the ages of 10 and 12, and 41% of all contact lenses wearers are between the ages of 10 and 17. Additionally, this age range is also the most likely to alternate between wearing contacts and glasses, depending on their needs or planned activities, whether it’s athletics or extracurricular groups.

What Factors Should You Consider? 

eye doctorWhen deciding whether your child should start wearing contact lenses, focus on their individual maturity level and needs, rather than just their age. One factor to consider is your child’s responsibility. Caring for contact lenses requires regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure they are safe to put in, as well as storing them properly in their case when not worn.

If your child participates in a sport, wearing goggles for their vision could be hindering their play. Wearing contact lenses could give them more freedom on and off the field.

Are There Drawbacks?

While contacts can offer several benefits to children and young adults, there are some drawbacks to be aware of when deciding whether to switch. Because they are placed directly on the eye, there is an increased risk of corneal infections and scratches. Additionally, they are small, making them easy for little hands to lose. And after getting the right prescription, there is still a chance that your child won’t be comfortable wearing them, in which case they would likely go back to their glasses.

 

If you’re considering getting contact lenses for your child, consult with the professionals at Midwest Eye Center: A Division of Tri-State Centers for Sight, serving Cincinnati, OH, and Crestview Hills, KY. Their eye doctors are well-versed at working with patients of all ages, whether you’re looking for contact lenses or need a comprehensive exam. To learn more about contacts, visit their website or call (859) 525-6215.

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