I was given the same advice when I had cataract surgery last year - it seems to be the one-size-fits-all advice - and I have been unhappy with the results.
The toric lens improved but did not correct my astigmatism. The bigger problem was that I ended up extremely far-sighted after the surgery. This is a very common outcome that the doc glossed over with big promises about how great my new eyesight was going to be. Over a year has gone by and it still drives me nuts that I can’t see anything up close. Since I can’t see well enough to work at a computer or read or even to do ordinary things that require near vision like chopping vegetables or shaving, I have to wear glasses most of the time anyway. So what was the point of the fancy toric lens beyond padding the bill?
If you do any type of work that requires close eyesight, I would advise you to insist on a progressive lens implant instead of the toric. It’s about the same price, and you can add glasses to correct the astigmatism when reading, if needed. I wish I had done this, but the doc pushed the toric like it was the only possible option.
Almost every one I know who has had cataract surgery has opted for 20/20 vision and now they need glasses for reading. If you are at the age for cataract surgery you may also be taking prescription medications which means you can’t read the labels because the print is too small.
I opted for cataract surgery where I can still read without glasses and need glasses only for distance. I can still drive without glasses if an emergency comes up.
Did you choose the distance for your lens, or did the doctor? I do extensive computer-based work. I was given the choice of near, intermediate (computer), and far. I got the intermediate and have been happy as a clam for the year that I’ve had the lenses.
I do have get out the magnifying glasses for really small print, like on medicine or food labels, generally, I’m good.