Understanding Presbyopia
Presbyopia is an age-related change where the eye gradually loses the ability to focus on close objects. This is a normal change that typically begins to affect most people in their 40s.
What is Presbyopia?
Presbyopia is when the eye gradually loses its flexibility, making it harder to focus on things up close. Near tasks like reading, using your phone or doing fine detail work start to feel more difficult.
You might first notice presbyopia when you begin holding close objects like books or phones at arm’s length to see them clearly. If you are short-sighted, you may find you can read better by taking your glasses off.
Identifying the Common Signs of Presbyopia
- Difficulty seeing small print, fine detail or small objects up close
- Holding things further away to read them clearly
- Headaches, tired or sore eyes with reading or close work
- Needing brighter or stronger lighting for near tasks
- Distance vision feeling strained after long periods of computer or near work
Why it happens?
Presbyopia is a natural ageing process and happens to everyone to some degree. It usually becomes noticeable in the early- mid 40s and tends to progress gradually until the mid 60s.
Treatment and options
The good news is that presbyopia can be managed very effectively, allowing you to maintain clear and comfortable near vision.
There are several options, including:
- Reading glasses
- Progressive (multifocal) glasses
- Contact lenses designed for both distance and near vision
- Surgical options to be discussed with your optometrist
Because vision can change more rapidly between about 45 and 65 years, updates to your lens prescription may be needed more often during this time.
