A Guide to Multifocal Contact Lenses for Near- and Far-Sightedness

As people age, it becomes common to notice vision changes. Reading a book might require holding it farther away, while distant road signs may look blurry. This condition, called presbyopia or age-related farsightedness, typically begins in the early to mid-40s and eventually affects nearly everyone.

Traditionally, prescription glasses were the main solution, but multifocal contact lenses offer a modern answer. Designed to provide clear vision at varying distances, these lenses allow wearers to see both near and far without reading glasses or switching between different lens powers. In this guide, you’ll learn what multifocal contact lenses are, how they work, the pros and cons of using them, and which types of multifocal options might be a good solution for you.

What Are Multifocal Contact Lenses?

Multifocal contact lenses, sometimes called progressive contact lenses, provide clear vision at multiple distances within a single lens. Unlike single-vision contact lenses that correct only one range of vision, multifocal lenses combine different powers so you can see both near and far without switching eyewear.

They are especially useful for people with presbyopia, the refractive error that makes it harder to focus on nearby objects. With multifocal or progressive contact lenses, you can check your phone, read a menu, or see clearly while driving, all with one pair of lenses.

Unlike bifocal glasses or progressive eyeglasses that have a visible line or separation between prescriptions, multifocal contacts use advanced optical designs that create a seamless transition between near, intermediate, and far vision. It’s a more natural experience and provides better visual acuity for everyday use.

How Do Multifocal Contact Lenses Work?

Multifocal contact lenses incorporate more than one lens power into a single lens. Unlike standard lenses that correct vision at just one distance, multifocal lenses allow light from different lens powers to reach the retina at the same time. Your brain then processes these inputs and naturally selects the clearest image depending on where you’re focusing.

Think of this process like a radio dial. Each zone of the lens bends light differently, almost like tuning into a different frequency— 87.7, 98.9, 101.4, etc. One zone gives you distant vision, another helps with nearby objects, and another covers in between. Your brain acts like the tuner, automatically selecting the sharpest “signal” for what you need to see. This seamless transition lets you focus clearly at all distances without the abrupt switches you might get with single vision contact lenses or wearing reading glasses.

This process might sound complicated, but it quickly becomes second nature. Most wearers adapt within a few days to a couple of weeks, after which wearing multifocal lenses feels natural. There are three main design types:

Concentric Ring Design

Sometimes referred to as concentric multifocal contact lenses, these lenses have alternating rings of near and distance prescriptions across the surface of the lens. Depending on what you’re looking at, your eyes will use the appropriate ring to sharpen your vision, and the layout of the concentric circles helps the eye switch naturally without abrupt changes in focus between distances. This design is common in many soft disposable lenses and can help correct presbyopia.

Aspheric Design

Aspheric multifocal lenses gradually blend different prescriptions across the lens surface, much like progressive glasses. This gradual transition provides clearer intermediate distances, making them especially useful for tasks like computer work.

Segmented Design

Segmented multifocal lenses function more like bifocal glasses. The upper portion of the lens is for distant vision, while the lower section is for reading. These lenses are typically made as rigid gas permeable (RGP) or scleral lenses, rather than soft disposables, and they may be a good choice for people with multiple vision problems. Some specialty versions even function similarly to trifocal lenses, offering distinct zones for near, intermediate, and distance correction.

Multifocal vs. Bifocal vs. Monovision Lenses

When it comes to correcting both near and far vision, there are a few different options. Multifocal contact lenses are one solution, but bifocal contact lenses and monovision contact lenses are also sometimes used as alternatives. Each approach works differently and may be recommended by an eye doctor or eye care professional, depending on your needs.

Bifocal lenses have two distinct prescriptions, one for near and one for distance. In glasses, there is a visible line separating the two. In contact lenses, bifocals are less common and usually reserved for rigid gas-permeable lenses. The downside is that vision can feel less natural, especially when switching focus quickly.

Monovision correction involves fitting one eye with a lens for distance and the other eye with a lens for near vision. While this can be effective, it reduces depth perception and may take longer to adjust to. It’s not ideal for activities like driving at night or sports that require precise depth awareness.

Multifocal lenses blend multiple prescriptions within the same lens, creating a smoother transition between distances and helping you see near, intermediate distances, and far without a noticeable divide. Compared to monovision, multifocal lenses provide better depth perception and more natural vision.

Who Should Consider Progressive Lenses?

Contact lenses for near and far are designed primarily for people with presbyopia, a natural vision change that usually begins in the early to mid-40s. Presbyopia makes it harder to focus on nearby objects, so activities like reading a phone screen, working on a computer, or sewing can become more difficult without additional correction. Progressive contact lenses are a good solution if:

• You are starting to notice the early signs of presbyopia. If you find yourself holding books or your phone farther away to read, multifocal lenses can help restore clear vision and correct presbyopia.
• Currently wear bifocal or progressive eyeglasses. Multifocal contact lenses offer a glasses-free alternative that provides the same range of correction in a more convenient form.
• Have a daily routine that mixes tasks at varying distances. Switching between reading, driving, and screen use becomes much easier with lenses that adjust naturally to all focal points without abrupt switches.
• Lead an active lifestyle or play sports. Contact lenses stay in place during physical activity, making them more practical than wearing reading glasses for movement and performance.
• Work extensively on computers, but still need sharp distant vision. Multifocal lenses let you focus comfortably on your screen without sacrificing clarity when you look across the room.
• Travel frequently and prefer simplicity. With multifocal lenses, there’s no need to carry multiple pairs of prescription glasses for different activities.
• Want a smooth, natural visual transition at all distances. Unlike bifocal glasses, multifocal lenses eliminate visible lines, creating a more seamless transition.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Multifocal Contacts

Like any vision correction option, multifocal contact lenses come with benefits and challenges. For many people, the convenience and freedom outweigh the drawbacks, but it’s helpful to understand both sides before deciding if they’re right for you.

What Are the Best Multifocal Contact Lens Brands?

When choosing the best multifocal contact lenses, comfort, clarity, and convenience are key. The top brands stand out because of their advanced technologies, breathable materials, and proven results for people with presbyopia.

1. Acuvue Moist Multifocal (Daily)

Acuvue Moist Multifocal contact lenses are built on the trusted Acuvue Moist platform and are designed to give clear vision at all distances, even in low light. With Lacreon technology, they lock in moisture for up to 20 hours of comfort. They also offer UV protection, blocking 82% of UVA and 97% of UVB rays. Daily disposable packs are perfect for convenience, while Acuvue Oasys Multifocal offers a reusable two-week option.

2. Biofinity Multifocal (Monthly)

CooperVision’s Biofinity Multifocal lenses use Aquaform technology, creating a naturally moist, flexible, and highly breathable lens material. They provide excellent all-day comfort while maintaining high oxygen flow to keep eyes white and healthy, and can be worn daily or even continuously for up to six nights and seven days (with optometrist approval). They’re a great choice for those who want premium comfort and extended wear flexibility with better visual acuity across varying distances.

3. Bausch + Lomb ULTRA for Presbyopia (Monthly)

Bausch + Lomb ULTRA lenses use a 3-Zone Progressive Design that delivers clear near, intermediate, and distance vision while helping your eyes focus effortlessly on digital devices. They’re made from a silicone hydrogel material that allows high oxygen flow, supporting bright and healthy eyes even during long wear. With moisture-rich packaging and a thin, rounded edge, they provide excellent comfort from insertion through the end of the day, making them a good solution for people balancing multiple vision problems.

4. Air Optix Plus HydraGlyde Multifocal (Monthly)

Made by Alcon, these Air Optix lenses combine HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix for lasting hydration and SmartShield technology to resist lipid deposits. They allow up to five times more oxygen to reach the eye compared to standard contacts, ensuring comfort and clear vision throughout the month. They are especially recommended for people with sensitive or dry eyes, those who spend long hours on computers, or are in air-conditioned environments, and may be suggested by an eye doctor to help correct presbyopia.

5. Dailies Total 1 Multifocal (Daily)

Dailies Total 1 Multifocal daily disposable lenses feature a water gradient design, making the surface nearly 80% water for unmatched comfort and breathability. With Triple Action Moisture technology, they keep eyes hydrated from morning to night. They’re also six times more breathable than many soft lenses, reducing dryness and irritation. These lenses are perfect for those who want the healthiest, most convenient option with no cleaning required, especially older adults who prefer simplicity and fewer abrupt switches when moving between tasks.

Other Multifocal Contact Lens Options We Offer

Alongside the most popular multifocal lenses, Contacts For Less also offers a wide range of alternatives to suit different needs and preferences. These include lenses with specialized prescription power or unique designs that work well for specific vision needs:

• Dailies AquaComfort Plus Multifocal are a daily disposable lens that provides refreshing comfort throughout the day with blink-activated moisture technology.
• Proclear 1 Day Multifocal daily lenses that stay moist and comfortable, even for people with eye problems such as dryness.
• Proclear Multifocal Toric lenses are a unique option that corrects both presbyopia and astigmatism in the same lens, offering tailored lens inside technology that keeps moisture where it’s needed most.
• Proclear Multifocal XR is an extended-range multifocal designed for higher prescriptions that provides clear vision across varying distances and handles more complex corrections.
• PureVision 2 Multifocal for Presbyopia are monthly lenses with crisp vision at all ranges and high oxygen flow for healthy eyes, using advanced prescription power adjustments.
• PureVision Multifocal is a trusted lens designed for consistent clarity with seamless transition between focal points.
• Soflens Multifocal is an affordable multifocal option that offers smooth changes without abrupt switches, making it a practical choice for daily use.

Tips for Success With Multifocal Contact Lenses

Switching to multifocal contact lenses can feel like a big change, but a few simple strategies make the process smoother and more comfortable.

• Give yourself time to adjust. It’s normal for your eyes and brain to take a few days or even weeks to adapt to processing different powers within a single lens.
• Work with your eye doctor or another trusted eye care professional for a proper fit. A professional fitting ensures you get contacts that are matched with the right design, prescription power, and wearing schedule.
• Double-check your details. Wearing contact lenses that require precise measurements, such as multifocals, means accuracy matters more than with single-vision contact lenses.
• Follow the recommended wearing schedule. Whether your lenses are daily, bi-weekly, or monthly, replacing them on time helps maintain clear vision across intermediate distances and far.
• Start with daily wear before trying extended wear. Many people find it easier to adapt when they first use the lenses only during waking hours.
• Wear them in different settings. Try reading, driving, and using screens so your eyes can adapt across different vision ranges without abrupt switches.
• Manage expectations. Vision may not be razor-sharp at every distance, but it should feel balanced with a gradual transition.
• Schedule follow-up visits. Your provider can fine-tune your fit, especially if you have multiple vision problems or complex needs like trifocal lenses.
• Have backup progressive eyeglasses handy. Especially in the early stages, they can help until you are fully comfortable wearing multifocal lenses.
• Practice good hygiene. Always wash your hands before handling lenses to avoid irritation or other eye problems.

Order Online Today to Begin Seeing Clearly at Every Distance

Multifocal contact lenses make it possible to enjoy clear vision up close, at arm’s length, and far away, without the hassle of switching between glasses. For anyone living with presbyopia, they provide a simple way to stay active, independent, and comfortable in every part of daily life.

At Contacts For Less, ordering multifocal lenses online in Canada is easy and affordable, backed by our lowest price guarantee, family ownership, and a commitment to donating 51% of profits to help others. In addition to multifocal contacts, we also carry a full range of daily, bi-weekly, and monthly lenses, as well as specialty options for astigmatism and other vision needs.

If you’re ready to experience the freedom of contact lenses for near and far vision, explore our selection and find the pair that’s right for you.