faq

Can someone work out their own lens power?

Yes. If the fitting protocol is followed, users achieve results similar to the spherical lens power an eye care specialist would prescribe.

Don't people's prescriptions change over time? How will people get updated prescriptions?

Ideally, everyone should have an annual eye exam. As part of our program, we are investigating how best to re-supply existing owners with replacement eyeglasses in addition to targeting people who have not yet been screened.

Will Vision for a Nation be replicated in other countries?

Yes, our aim is to launch Vision for a Nation in additional countries, where appropriate support structures exist and funding is available to do so.

How do adjustable eyeglasses work?

The power of each fluid-filled lens can be adjusted independently to suit the needs of the user. Turn the dials to change the volume of fluid in each lens and once clear vision is attained fix the lens's power by removing the adjuster knobs. Each set-and-seal lens covers a wide range of powers: from -4.5 to 3.5 dioptres. The lenses are impact resistant and have anti-scratch coating for added durability and the frames are made with strong but lightweight polycarbonate.

Can adjustable eyeglasses be re-adjusted multiple times?

No. The eyeglasses are designed to be adjusted with the help of a trained layperson. The adjusters are then permanently removed.

Can adjustable eyeglasses solve all vision problems?

Adjustable eyeglasses can correct up to 90% of refractive errors. Under the Vision for a Nation program, individuals whose vision correction needs cannot be met by the eyeglasses or who display signs of eye disease are referred to local hospitals for treatment.

Does Vision for a Nation only use adjustable eyeglasses in Rwanda?

No. Once an individual has had their vision screened, they are provided with the adjustable eyeglasses, if required. Vision for a Nation Foundation also employ adjustable eyeglasses that use sliding Alvarez lens technology but which currently must be fitted by an ophthalmologist or optometrist; and traditional ready-made reading glasses for those who have begun to need eyeglasses for close work.

Where can I buy a pair of adjustable eyeglasses?

Vision for a Nation Foundation does not manufacture adjustable eyeglasses. They are also subject to various country specific regulations, and as such are not available for individual sale.

Where have adjustable eyeglasses been trialed / distributed / used?

30,000 pairs of an older generation of adjustable eyeglasses have been deployed in a number of countries including Ghana, Angola, the Republic of Georgia, Morocco and Niger.

How durable are adjustable eyeglasses?

Adjustable eyeglasses are made with the same impact resistant materials used in conventional eyeglasses. The frames and lenses have been manufactured to ISO standards.

How do people qualify to receive a pair of adjustable eyeglasses (age limits)?

Anyone aged 8 years and above is eligible for a vision assessment. Protocols have been designed by an optometrist and approved by Rwanda’s Chief Ophthalmologist and the Ministry of Health to determine who will benefit from eyeglasses.

Are their limits on how fast this program can move? When would you be confident to move to a national program?

The Vision for a Nation program plan is to complete phase 2 in order to assess the challenges to scaling distribution and to formulate a robust national distribution plan.