February 7, 2022

Non-Prescription ‘Cheaters’ vs. Prescription Glasses

Our vision and eye experts have the clear answer

man using cheater eyeglasses to read

Q: If you need assistance clearly seeing text, are “cheater” glasses just as good as prescription readers?

A: Aging can take a toll on your eyes, a reality obvious to anyone who has held a restaurant menu at arm’s length or up to their nose to clearly read the list of entrées.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

If this describes you, let’s start with the basics: It’s important to have your eyes examined to determine if you need a prescription for glasses or if there’s some other issue related to your vision. Don’t put this off.

Now, let’s talk about where you might be able to find corrective reading lenses if they’re needed.

For the vast majority of people, over-the-counter (OTC) readers should not be a problem as long as they match the power of the prescription. For instance, if your doctor recommends +2.00 in each eye, then purchasing OTC readers of the same power should generally suffice.

Know this, though: The quality of the lenses and materials of mass-produced readers are usually inferior to those of privately manufactured specs. Many people are willing to accept this compromise because of the low cost of the product.

Advertisement

There are instances where OTC readers are not ideal, though. In rare cases when the distance between pupils is very small or very wide, the lenses in OTC readers can cause eye strain or double vision.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms with OTC readers, it’s best to replace them with a proper pair of prescription glasses.

But if you can go the over-the-counter route, here are some tips.

  • Find the right power. Reading glasses will have signs or stickers noting their power. In most cases, they range from +1 to +4 diopter, in increments of +.25. Look for what matches your prescription. If you don’t have a prescription, try the lowest power (+1) first.
  • Test-drive the glasses. If you’ve brought reading material with you, try reading it at a comfortable length. (Many eyeglass displays have an eye chart, too, to test the glasses.) Try different powers until you can read clearly at a distance that’s most comfortable for you.
  • Go big the first time. While there are many styles and colors to choose from, you may want to start your reading glass journey with a bigger pair of specs. Larger lenses offer more of a “sweet spot” where the prescription is. It’s easier to use a smaller lens once you get used to wearing glasses.

If your vision continues giving you problems after adding glasses, schedule an appointment to see your optometrist or ophthalmologist. You may need a different prescription, bifocals or some other remedy.

Advertisement

— Optometrist Robert Engel, OD, and ophthalmologist Rishi Singh, MD.

Related Articles

Person lifting up their sweater, showing ostomy bag in mirror's reflection
December 6, 2023
Adjusting to Life With an Ostomy Bag: What To Expect

It can be hard to get used to the bags, but the freedom they provide is worth the challenge

Happy caucasian woman hiking in forest
December 6, 2023
Forest Bathing: What It Is and Its Potential Benefits

Immersing yourself in nature can improve both your mental and physical health

Woman looking in mirror and pulling skin until wrinkles disappear
December 6, 2023
Should You Add Collagen Supplements to Your Skin Care Routine?

Though popular with influencers and celebrities, there’s little research to back up claims that they work

A vaccine syringe in front of a passport for international travel.
December 5, 2023
Which Vaccines Are Required To Travel?

Plan early — getting the right vaccines can help you stay healthy on your travels

Person overheated lying on chair on the beach; heart rythym next to him
December 5, 2023
How the Heat Can Affect Your Heart

Sizzling temperatures force your heart to work much harder

nocovaine needle entering mouth with dental mirror
December 4, 2023
How Long Does Novocaine Last?

The numbness and tingling should wear off in about two hours

bearded man sitting crosslegged holding clock in one hand, calendar in other
December 4, 2023
Are Bare Minimum Mondays Good for Your Mental Health?

Rethinking your Mondays might make the ‘Sunday scaries’ a thing of the past

A sad couple standing on each side of a large broken heart
December 4, 2023
Yes, You Can Die From a Broken Heart — But No, It’s Not Likely at All

The emotional toll of loss and other strong emotions can have life-threatening physical effects

Trending Topics

group of hands holding different beverages
November 14, 2023
10 Myths About Drinking Alcohol You Should Stop Repeating

Coffee won’t cure a hangover and you definitely shouldn’t mix your cocktail with an energy drink

Person applies moisturizer as part of their skin care routine after a shower.
November 10, 2023
Korean Skin Care Routines: What You Need To Know

Focus on the philosophy — replenishing and respecting your skin — not necessarily the steps

glass of cherry juice with cherries on table
November 8, 2023
Sleepy Girl Mocktail: What’s in It and Does It Really Make You Sleep Better?

This social media sleep hack with tart cherry juice and magnesium could be worth a try

Ad