If greater magnification that 2 x is required, then hand held magnifiers are usually more versatile. Stand magnifiers that are internally illuminated (like a map reader …with a light inside) should be used with standard reading glasses.

Sometimes it is helpful to move the book rather than the magnifier. This method gives the maximum magnification, the best field of view and the easiest way to maintain the working distance.

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A small stand magnifier suitable for reading a telephone directory or bill. This one has a ‘high magnification’, but remember only a few words will be visible at one time. These usually give the best results when held against the reading spectacles and then the reading matter is held against the stand of the magnifier.

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A stand magnifier suitable for reading a letter. This one has a ‘low magnification’, with many words visible at one time, but the letters may not be large enough for everyone to read.

How to use a magnifier

See MAGNIFICATION

There are a many methods of using a hand held magnifier, whether illuminated or not. There are no particular rules, but lighting is critical, even with an internal light.

Lighting

The light needs to be positioned so that glare is reduced and shadows are minimal, this reduces confusion. If the magnifier is not internally illuminated, low wattage, eg 40w, lamp close to the table is usually better than a central light from the ceiling. This is like reading with day light behind, but not very bright like sunlight.

One good eye

Again, if one eye is dominant, it is important that the task is held in front of the better eye. This often means changing habits of a lifetime, which can be very frustrating.

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An illuminated fixed distance aid, with batteries or a tranformer that will plug in. These are very popluar: close up picture below.

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An small fixed distance aid, that is easy to carry around. Good lighting is needed (see text).

A small illuminated aid, very portable. Close up on left, in use on the right.

Large supported magnifier (floor or wall mounted)

An illuminated magnifying glass on a stand resting on the floor. These are expensive but very useful for sewing or reading for many people. The sewingis held about 5" (12cm) behind.

These are expensive but useful for sewing or hobbies.

Spectacle illuminated aids

Spectacle aids, with or without illumination, are the least versatile, and but they do not have to be held, and the hands can be free. They may be useful for such tasks as sewing. However, objects have to be held quite close to the eyes, and this can be uncomfortable.

Spectacles can be made so that both eyes are used (binocular vision and stereoscopic vision) up to approximately 2 x magnification. This will give a working distance of 5" (12.5 cm).

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