What type of lens would be recommended for a patient with a prescription of -3.00 sphere if they require a lens design that accommodates changes in prescription due to aging?

The recommendation for a patient with a -3.00 sphere prescription who needs a lens design that accommodates changes in prescription due to aging is progressive lenses. Progressive lenses are specifically designed to provide a gradual change in visual acuity for different distances—near, intermediate, and far—without the visible lines that bifocals have.

As individuals age, it's common for their vision to change, often developing presbyopia, where they have difficulty focusing on close objects. Progressive lenses offer a seamless transition between different prescription strengths, allowing the wearer to see clearly at various distances. This adaptability makes them a suitable choice for individuals who require flexibility in their vision as their prescription changes over time.

Choosing bifocal contacts would only assist with two fixed distances (typically near and far) but wouldn’t cater adequately to intermediate vision or the natural progression of presbyopia. Gas permeable lenses, while providing high oxygen permeability, do not inherently accommodate progressive vision needs. Standard soft lenses may offer comfort but lack the necessary design to address multiple focal points.