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An Under-Corrected Prescription

February 6th, 2007

by Martin Sussman

All glasses are not the same. I suggest that people always use an under-corrected prescription. Usually, when you go for an eye test, the doctor puts lenses in front of your eyes until you can read the bottom line on the eye chart. Though these glasses give you the sharpest vision (20/20) in the moment, they don’t do you much good in the long run. In fact, it’s one of the main reasons why people need stronger and stronger prescriptions. Instead, I recommend the weaker glasses. These usually correct to 20/40 acuity, which is sharp enough to pass your driver’s test and drive legally and safely. Instead of reading the bottom line on the chart, with these under-corrected glasses, you’d be able to read one or two lines above the bottom. In the short run they’re not as sharp (though most people can’t see the difference), but in the long run, an under-corrected prescription could help keep your vision from getting worse, because it encourages the brain and eyes to work together.

And, if you’re using The Program for Better Vision, or another approach to improve your eyesight, an under-corrected prescription might make it easier for you to improve. And, as your natural vision gets clearer, what was once an under-correction will eventually become too strong. Then it’s time for another under-correction.

This way, you’re gradually weaning yourself from glasses as your own vision becomes clearer and clearer.

By the way, this approach also applies to people who use glasses only for reading and other close up activities.

You can find eye doctors that are sympathetic to this approach at www.bettervision.com. Click on “Find an Eye Doctor” when you get to the home page.

Entry Filed under: Vision Improvement