As we age, there are various eye conditions that we might develop, such as astigmatism or presbyopia. In fact, more than 32 million people in the U.S. have both of these conditions. If you’re among this population, then one common misconception you may be familiar with is that you can’t wear contacts. We’ll discuss why this isn’t true and a potential solution, but first let’s dive into what astigmatism and presbyopia are.

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common eye-focusing condition that happens when your cornea is shaped more like a football than equally curved in all directions.

If you have astigmatism, you might:

• Have trouble seeing both near and far
• Squint often or experience eyestrain
• See images that are blurry or distorted

What is Presbyopia?

Presbyopia is a common age-related change to near vision. As your eyes age, it gets harder for them to focus to help you see clearly. Most people start to notice the effects of presbyopia around or after the age of 40. 

If you have presbyopia, you might:

• Have trouble seeing small or fine print (books, text messages, computer, small print on a menu or in a dark restaurant)
• Hold items farther away to read them
• Have blurry vision when you read or use a smartphone
• Keep readers in every room
• Experience headaches or a tired feeling in your eyes during up-close tasks.

What Are My Contact Lens Options?

For those with astigmatism and presbyopia, there’s a new product available that combines presbyopia and astigmatism lens designs, called Bausch + Lomb ULTRA Multifocal for Astigmatism. Ask your VSP network doctor if this contact lens might be right for you.