Requiring glasses is often met with resistance from a teen. The mere thought of ''four eyes'' can send a teenager running in the other direction. As opposed to glasses, kids and teens who use lenses feel a significant improvement in their looks, a newly published study shows. The research results show that starting at the age of eight, children should be offered the choice of lenses. The study was reported in the November issue of Eye & Contact Lens, published by the Contact Lens Association.
What is it about contacts that teens prefer? Teens are self-conscious, and they often feel more positive about themselves if they don't have eye glasses being the center of their appearance. Contact lenses may increase teens' self-image by providing them a less visible alternative for their vision needs.
Moreover, contacts can be a plus for active young adults who participate sports. For teenagers, contacts may be more safe than eyeglasses in many circumstances. Unlike eyeglasses, they are unlikely to get ruined during basketball, and other contact sports. Contacts are also more convenient when participating in activities that require face shields. In allowing for a full range of vision, contacts can also enhance teenager's peripheral vision during sport games.
Of course before your child purchases contacts you should ask your optometrist to discuss any potential issues your child might have. Our optometry practice will be glad to help you in determining the right plan for your teenager's contacts.
If your child or adolescent needs vision correction, why not consider contacts? Through something as simple as a soft lens, you can really change your teen's life. With the large selection of lenses on the market, you and your eye doctor can work with your child to decide what modality is most suitable for their personality, maturity and lifestyle.