Optometry What Is Add 2 20 Mean For Eyeglasses Prescription

Caroline Mae

2 min read

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04-01-2025

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Understanding your eyeglass prescription can feel like deciphering a secret code. One common source of confusion is the "+Add" value, often seen in prescriptions for reading glasses or bifocals. Let's break down what "+2.00 Add" specifically means.

Understanding the "Add" Power

The "+Add" power in your prescription refers to the additional power needed to focus on objects up close. It's not a measure of your overall vision correction, but rather the augmentation required for near vision tasks like reading or working on a computer.

Think of it this way: your distance vision correction corrects for faraway objects. The "add" power is added on top of your distance correction to bring near objects into sharp focus. The higher the "add" number, the stronger the correction needed for near vision. A "+2.00 Add" means an additional 2 diopters of power are added to your distance prescription for near vision.

Why is an "Add" Power Necessary?

As we age, the lens inside our eye loses its flexibility, making it harder to focus on nearby objects. This condition is called presbyopia. This is why you'll often see "add" power prescribed for individuals over 40, though it can occur earlier in some cases. The "add" power compensates for this age-related change in the eye's ability to accommodate.

What Does "+2.00 Add" Mean Specifically?

A "+2.00 Add" indicates that 2 diopters of power are added to your distance prescription for near vision tasks. This is a relatively common addition power, particularly for those in the early stages of presbyopia. The exact power needed varies depending on individual needs and the degree of presbyopia.

Someone with a "+2.00 Add" might find it comfortable to read books or use a computer with their glasses. However, individuals with more severe presbyopia may require a higher "add" power, such as +2.50, +3.00, or even higher.

Important Considerations

It's crucial to remember that this explanation is for informational purposes only. It does not replace a consultation with an eye care professional. The correct "add" power for you will depend on various factors, including your age, lifestyle, and overall vision needs. Always consult your optometrist or ophthalmologist for a proper eye examination and prescription. They can accurately assess your individual needs and prescribe the most suitable lenses for your vision health.