Bifocal eyeglasses correct nearsightedness and farsightedness. The top half of the lens helps the wearer see objects far away, while the lower half is used for reading, computer use, and other tasks that require close-up vision. They’re most often worn by people ages 40 and over who have a condition called presbyopia. Eye conditions have likely existed for as long as humankind, but how have people of yesteryear coped with vision loss? Here’s a brief history of eyeglasses. 

Past Eyewear

No one knows for sure when the first glasses were invented, although ancient Romans used spheres to magnify text and, later, Italians invented crystal lenses.

During the 1700s, over-the-ear glasses were designed, and in 1784 Benjamin Franklin created bifocals by cutting two pairs of eyeglasses and piecing them together. Before Franklin’s invention, people had to carry two pairs of glasses if they had presbyopia. He called his design “double spectacles.”

The term “bifocals” came about later in 1824 when John Isaac Hawkins invented trifocals, which can focus on three distances. Louis de Wecker developed a method to fuse the bifocal and trifocal lenses in the early 20th century to make them less fragile.

Bifocals Today

Today, you can select from a broad range of bifocals and trifocals. While these lenses still have a “seg” line, or segment differentiating between the top and bottom half, it is much less noticeable than those in the days of Franklin, and there are many modern and attractive styles. There are also special lenses specifically for computer work. 

If you need a new pair of eyeglasses, turn to Eric G. Stocker, OD. Located in Amherst, OH, this local eye doctor has served Lorain County for nearly 30 years, providing a range of services, including vision tests, glaucoma checks, and eye exams. Call (440) 988-4419 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule an appointment. Or visit the website to learn more about the services and eyeglasses they offer.