Magnifying glasses (or any magnifying device in general) are aimed to simply magnify any object in focus. It is clear that the impact of this remarkable ability is priceless for mankind. Reading glasses, on the other hand, are specifically aimed to correct a near vision deficiency, mostly age-related. Of course, since reading glasses are actually a magnifying device, anyone that wears them will see thing better. However, there are several important points for people to understand regarding the effects of having good near vision vs. the use of reading glasses on reading vision decline in particular and overall cognitive function in general. While it is clear to everyone that the technological advances that allowed good near vision after the onset of the natural age-related decline have a great contribution to the overall progress, still it is no less important to be aware of the fact that the more you use your reading glasses, the less you are using the muscles in your eyes that are responsible for lens accommodation, so the natural decline of vision may be accelerated.
And, even more important is the fact that by not challenging your brain you also encourage cognitive decline. There are many clinical studies that demonstrate a link between vision and cognitive decline. There are also effective ways to boost your brain's visual function in order to compensate for the decreased optical functions of your eyes.