To see both near and far : solving problems of presbyobia. The objective of this study was to study presbyopia and its correction methods. As a practical dimension of the subject we conducted a case study on multifocal contact lenses in an optical store.

For the theoretical part of this work we made a literary study on presbyopia and the methods of visual correction that are available for it at the moment of the study in 2010.

The practical part of the study was conducted in optical store Näkökulma. 18 participants were chosen and their visual refractions were measured. After a slit-lamp biomicroscopic examination of the anterior eye, soft monthly multifocal contact lenses were fitted to the customers. The goal was to achieve the best possible distance and near visual correction. After this, the customers were asked to wear the lenses at least for a fortnight and record their opinions on the lenses in a diary. After two weeks, the customers were invited to an aftercare session. The customers’ visual acuity was measured once more and their eyes were examined with a slit-lamp microscope. The customers were also interviewed. Their opinions on the lenses and on visual correction were recorded.

Because the number of the participants was limited, any conclusive results were not possible. Multifocal contact lenses diminished the customers’ visual acuity and contrast sensitivity somewhat, although the differences were marginal. It seemed to be very important to offer the participants realistic expectations on how the lenses would work. Most of the customers were at least moderately satisfied with the lenses. Two customers were disappointed with multifocal contact lenses. Five participants decided to make a lens order after the study and continue the lens use.

In conclusion of our study, multifocal contact lenses tend to offer one possible visual correction method for presbyopia. For us, this study offered a good opportunity to apply our soft contact lens fitting skills and slit-lamp biomicroscopic examination routine in practice.