We’ve already discussed quite a few solutions for the ubiquituous age-associated eye problem known as presbyopia. We talked about orthokeratology, and even Lens Replacement Surgery (LRS). Most recently, we featured multifocal LASIK surgery, which unlike conventional LASIK, can actually handle presbyopia.

But what if I were to tell you that scientists are coming up with an upgrade for your glasses. Yes, the conventional spectacles that most of us wear everyday. These upgraded glasses would contain liquid crystals sandwiched between two flat glass plates, and can be electronically activated and deactivated. When activated, the lenses mimic the close-range focusing power of human lenses, and thus, act as a solution for presbyopia. When deactivated, the lenses become no more than plain glass - just right for long-range sight.

These glasses should be available commercially in less than five years, which in my opinion, diminishes its value significantly. Unless it is released in about two years or less, surgical solutions such as multifocal LASIK will not only become cheap enough for mass consumption, but also effective and safe enough for even the risk-averse elderly to accept.

[News via LiveScience.com]