Reading glasses power calculator by age
After 40 the eye's lens stiffens and near work gets harder. Enter your age to see the usual reading power.
Reading glasses power
How to use it
- Enter your age.
- Read the typical reading addition for that age.
- If you wear distance glasses, add it to your distance number.
- Confirm the exact power with an eye test.
Your entries stay in your browser. Nothing is sent to us. The result is for information and is not a diagnosis.
Reading power by age
| Age | Typical addition |
|---|---|
| 38 to 42 | +1.00 |
| 43 to 47 | +1.25 |
| 48 to 49 | +1.50 |
| 50 to 52 | +1.75 |
| 53 to 55 | +2.00 |
| 56 to 59 | +2.25 |
| 60 and over | +2.50 |
These are averages. Your working distance, your distance number and the difference between your eyes all change the figure.
Ready readers, bifocals or progressives?
Ready-made readers suit people whose two eyes have the same number and no cylinder. If you also need distance glasses, choose bifocal or progressive lenses.
Questions
What is presbyopia?
The normal loss of near focus after about 40, as the lens inside the eye stiffens.
Do reading glasses weaken the eyes?
No. Presbyopia progresses with age whether or not you wear glasses.
Why do I need more power for small print?
Holding print closer needs more focusing power. A stronger addition or better light helps.
Prepared by the team at Babar Homeopathic Clinic & EyeBar Optical, Kangan Pur. Last updated 3 October 2026. See our medical disclaimer.
More free eye tests and optical calculators
Visit us in Kot Bismillah, Kangan Pur
- Address
- Main Road, Kot Bismillah, Kangan Pur, Tehsil Chunian, District Kasur, Punjab
- Open
- 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, every day
- Phone
- 0301 4117591
- Phone and WhatsApp
- 0325 2386838