If you have trouble seeing both up close and far away—a condition that eye doctors call presbyopia—you may be a good candidate for bifocals or their modern counterpart. Instead of switching between two pairs of prescription glasses all day long, you can wear a single pair that has bifocal or progressive lenses that allow you to see both up close and far away with clarity. Here’s a closer look at the history of this style of eyeglasses and how it’s evolved.

A Brief History of Bifocals 

When Benjamin Franklin realized standard prescription glasses weren’t meeting his needs—he struggled to see objects that were both nearby and distant—he set out to find a solution. In a letter to George Whatley that was dated August 1784, Franklin stated that he had invented “double spectacles,” which restored his vision.

Franklin created the first pair of bifocals by cutting two separate lenses in half and then combining one half from each into a single frame. The top lens allowed him to see distant objects, while the bottom was for tasks that demanded close viewing, such as reading and writing.  

Advancements & Alternatives 

In 1827, John Isaac Hawkins patented the terms “bifocals” after crediting Franklin for his invention of double spectacles. Hawkins took it one step further, though, and also created “trifocals,” which have three distinct lenses to allow for intermediate vision in addition to near and far. 

While bifocals and trifocals are still available today, advancements in technology have led to the invention of progressive lenses, which serve as a modern alternative. These prescription glasses blend the different powers seamlessly, so the lenses have no visible lines like those found on traditional bifocals and trifocals. As such, wearers enjoy a more natural transition with no noticeable jump when switching their focus between objects that are near and those that are distant. 

To see if you’re a good candidate for bifocal or progressive lenses, head to Progressive Vision Group. Located in High Point, NC, this optometry practice has been providing comprehensive vision care for patients across the area since 2003. Using only the most advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment, they help every patient find the perfect pair of prescription glasses or contact lenses. To request an appointment, reach out online or call (336) 841-2028.