by Starla Ross

Created on: January 21, 2009

Eyeglasses are just one of those things you can't live without. You have to have them. Driving, reading, balancing your checkbook, and even golfing could be a disaster without the right eyewear.

Just because you wear glasses, doesn't mean you have to break the bank trying to buy them. There can however be a number of ways to reduce your eyecare costs.

1. REPLACE YOUR EYEGLASSES LESS OFTEN.

This doesn't mean replace your eyewear every five years, as that could be dangerous. But many people replace their glasses every year like clockwork. It may be, especially as you get older, that your eyewear does not need replaced as often. If you seem to be seeing fine and your current glasses are in good condition, ask your optometrist if it would be possible to schedule your eye appointments every 18 months instead of 12. This will result in extra time (and less money) between appointments.

2. REPLACE JUST THE GLASS INSIDE YOUR FRAMES.

If you're pleased with your current frames and they aren't falling apart, consider replacing just the glass inside your frames. Most optometrists are more than willing to do this for their patients. Simply have your eye exam as you normally would and have your eye doctor determine your prescription. Then just have just the glass inside your frames replaced. The only downside? Your eye doctor may require you to leave your glasses there for a few days to have the glass fitted to your frames. In this case, you would need to use an older pair glasses in the interim or make arrangements for your optometrist to fit the frames with the glass while you wait in the office.

3. CHOOSE HEAVY DUTY EYEGLASS FRAMES.

Eyeglass frames seem to be getting lighter and lighter in weight, which is a good thing for your nose. However, it's not the best thing for your budget. Smaller, lightweight frames tend to break more easily. The more breaks you take with your glasses, the more likely you'll have to replace your frames more often. Select frames that are sturdy yet comfortable, that you know will last awhile.

4. PUT EYEWEAR IN YOUR WEEKLY BUDGET.

Why is it that eyewear never seems to find a place in the family budget? It seems that no one ever really thinks about eye health until someone's glasses break or go missing. It's a large enough expense, however, to be included as part of the family budget - especially if there are several family members that require glasses or contacts. Set aside a little money each paycheck, and you won't feel burdened or guilty when it comes time to replace your glasses.

5. PICK A NEUTRAL STYLE AND SHAPE.

If your glasses are red striped or bright green, they might be fun for awhile, but they're less likely to match with all your clothing. You're also less likely to keep them for any length of time. Pick and style, shape, and color that you know you won't mind wearing for awhile.

6. CONSIDER LASIK EYE SURGERY.

If you're finding yourself spending large amounts of money each year on eyeglasses, consider lasik eye surgery. The prices have really come down in recent years, and there seems to be enough research about the practice to be considered safe. While it may be a larger investment up front, it won't take long to make up for the costs associated with wearing glasses.

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