At the Optometrist (eye doctor)

I wear contact lens and I’m sure a lot of you wear them or glasses, so I thought it might be nice to learn a few words and phrases you could use if you need to go to the optometrist.

contact lens (contacts) and glasses – used to correct vision

far-sighted – You are unable to see things close up, but you can see things far away.

near-sighted – You are unable to see things far away, but you can see things close up.

bifocals – glasses with 2 distinct optical powers

prescription – This is what the doctor writes so you can get either contact lens or glasses. It is for a specific power of lenses. Contact lens prescriptions are only valid for 1 year.

reading glasses – Glasses that are used for reading. You do not need a prescription for these glasses.

20/20 vision – This is the same as 6/6 vision for my metric readers. 20/20 is in feet.

Here’s a dialog you can practice which is a typical conversation one would have with an eye doctor.

Dr. – Hi, how can I help you today?
You – I’m having difficulty seeing lately.
Dr. – Do you wear glasses or contacts?
You – Yes, I do. I have contacts on right now.
Dr. – Oh, perfect. Let’s do your eye test with your lens on and see how you do. Can you read the last line?
You – No.
Dr. – Which line is the lowest you can read?
You – The 3rd line is E, A, O, M, P
Dr. – Good. However, I think your vision has gotten worse, so you’ll need to get a new prescription. Can you take your lens off and we’ll start again and see what your new prescription is?
You – Sounds great.