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Dispensing multiple frames for lifestyle
Dispensing optician and AOP member, James Dawson, on: how should I approach dispensing frames for leisure and occupations?
07 February 2025
Dispensing frames and lenses for leisure and work is a crucial aspect of the eyewear industry, playing a vital role in providing individuals with the correct visual aids for their daily activities, so we should never be concerned about giving advice and multiple options – after all this is our specialty and why our clients come to us.
Thinking out of the box and not just dispensing or offering the basic options is significant for visual health, productivity, and overall quality of life.
Understanding the patient’s primary activities is crucial. Only after having a meaningful conversation with the client, explaining why you are asking questions and assessing their prescription, can you really begin the selection and fitting of eyewear tailored to the client and their specific needs. Finding out about the client’s lifestyle and occupation will aid your advice and the potential for multiple pair dispensing.
In work and in life
In leisure and work settings, individuals often engage with screens for extended periods. The prevalence of digital eye strain, characterised by symptoms such as dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches, has prompted a need for specialised lenses such as anti-fatigue and occupational lenses that mitigate these effects. Thus, understanding the nuances of optical dispensing is essential not only for enhancing visual comfort but also for promoting long-term ocular health.
Occupational settings demand a different approach to optical dispensing. Many professions require employees to engage in tasks that overwork their eyes. Consequently, individuals may benefit from prescription lenses specific for their work environments.
Optical leisure and occupational dispensing represent a crucial intersection between the fields of optometry, ergonomics, and consumer health
Dispensing specific optical solutions can significantly improve work efficiency by reducing visual discomfort and enhancing focus during demanding tasks.
Benjamin Franklin is probably the most famous, if not the first, to think about customising his vision requirements, and therefore invented bifocals.
Optical leisure and occupational dispensing represent a crucial intersection between the fields of optometry, ergonomics, and consumer health. As society becomes increasingly reliant on digital devices for both work and recreation, the demand for specialised eyewear has surged. It is essential to assess the specific requirements of individuals based on their activities while considering advancements in lens and frame technology.
For leisure activities, such as sports or outdoor pursuits, specific features in eyewear can enhance performance. For instance, water sports may benefit from polarised lenses that reduce glare.
By taking a personalised approach to dispensing frames and lenses, we can ensure that clients receive the most suitable and comfortable eyewear for their needs
Additionally, frames designed for durability and secure fit are essential for active users to minimise the risk of losing or damaging their eyewear during vigorous movements. Focusing on specific sports will also give greater options, such as swimming goggles or diving and snow masks.
Factors such as lifestyle, occupation, visual acuity, and style preferences all play a significant role in determining the best eyewear solution for a person. By taking a personalised approach to dispensing frames and lenses, we can ensure that clients receive the most suitable and comfortable eyewear for their needs.
Approaching the dispensing of frames and lenses for leisure and occupations requires a personalised and holistic approach that takes into account individual needs and preferences.
The last 60 days: things I have learnt in practice
- Open days and trunk shows are becoming a useful tool in promoting your business. Having done one this week, it was great to see people are still looking to find great eyewear, even at this difficult trading time in optics. We provided some amazing frames and lens combinations that help practitioners decide which models to stock going forward. Working with your suppliers to help grow your business is essential for both parties.
James Dawson - It was a week of finalising my CPD for this cycle. The practice hosted a peer review with Hoya. It was nice to interact with new connections and to learn from their experiences, as well as share my insight. I felt this was an essential and valuable part of the CPD requirement – it helps you find best practice and share ideas.
James Dawson - I attended my first Hakim Group retreat – wow, what an event. With top class speakers, motivating and providing insight; great business partners working with the stores to give them the tools to be successful, and an amazing Comic-Con themed party to celebrate success. The fancy dress was strong, with anything from Star Wars, superheroes and even a giant Pokémon.
James Dawson
About the author
James Dawson 
Dispensing optician
James Dawson is a dispensing optician and was an AOP Councillor for nine years, stepping down in 2024
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