Progressive lenses and bifocal lenses quite suit old people with presbyopia, because they need two kinds of eyeglasses for reading or far away. Both of the lenses meet the requirement. Through the top of the lens, you can clearly see objects in the distance, while through the bottom of the lens, you can see up-close objects.
For appearance, the most obvious distinction of both lenses is that whether there is a distinct line on the lens. There is an obvious line on bifocal lens, which separates it into two parts. But for progressive lenses, there is not.
For function, with bifocal lenses, you can only see near and far. But for progressive ones, in addition to that, you can see mid-distance, like computer work.
For price, progressive lenses are more expensive than bifocal ones.
Disregarding price, progressive lens is better than bifocal one from whatever the appearance or function view.