At last! What my patients have been asking about for years may be here soon: glasses that know when you are reading and know when you are driving and automatically change the focus of the lenses to adjust for you.

This would truly be exciting. it would eliminate the need for both the unsightly bifocal line as well as the “sweet spot” of progressive lenses.

Here is the idea, according to Optometrist Ron Blum: Buried inside a refractive lens, which bends light as traditional eyeglass lenses do, is a thin layer of liquid crystal. A sensor communicates with a microprocessor to automatically adjust focus depending on where a user looks. A controller changes the refractive index of the liquid crystal in the lens, providing a focus that is appropriate for objects near or far.

But would people wear these types of glasses? “We’ve really done our homework and I think people are going to be really surprised by the selling price and the aesthetics,” Blum said.

But for now premium progressive lenses still provide the best solution for child and adults who need a different lens power up close and in the distance. If you are not happy with your current bifocals or progressives, stop by and ask about the latest options!

Be Well!

Nathan Bonilla-Warford, OD
Bright Eyes Family Vision Care
Located in the Westchase area of Tampa.