Progressive lens glasses (PLGs) dramatically increase an individual’s fall risk. Little is currently understood regarding falling risk factors for progressive lens wearers and ergonomic solutions that reduce falling risk. Given that the functioning of the vestibular and vision systems are integrally connected by the central nervous system and are critical to balance and ambulation, their function may provide insight into why some PLG wearers fall, while others do not fall. Furthermore, ergonomic interventions that enhance visibility and contrast may improve balance in PLG wearers since PLGs influence vision and contrast sensitivity and their functioning is important to balance. This study, funded by the Pittsburgh Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center, aimed to: 1) quantify the link between vestibular and vision function on balance during stepping tasks; and 2) identify the gait adaptations and environmental conditions that improve functional balance. We recruited subjects from: 1) novice PLG or bifocal wearers; 2) older PLG or bifocal wearers over the age of 70 years old. Subjects underwent a vestibular functioning screening, vision assessment, balance assessment and functional gait trials. The environmental conditions like lighting, contrast of steps and availability of railings were modified to determine the effects of the surrounding environment on functional balance while wearing PLGs or bifocals. Biomechanical data was collected to determine the effects of personal adaptations on functional balance while using PLGs or bifocals.