Understanding age-related vision changes
As we age, our bodies go through various changes, and our eyes are no exception. One of the most common age-related eye conditions is presbyopia. If you’ve noticed that reading small print or focusing on close objects has become more difficult over time, you may be experiencing presbyopia. In this blog, we'll explore the causes and symptoms of this condition, and how it can be managed.
What is presbyopia?
Presbyopia is a natural part of the aging process. It affects the eye's ability to focus on close objects. The term "presbyopia" comes from the Greek words "presbys," meaning old, and "ops," meaning eye. It typically becomes noticeable around the age of 40 and progresses over time.
What causes presbyopia?
To understand presbyopia, it helps to know how the eye normally focuses. When you look at a nearby object, the lens inside your eye changes shape to focus the light accurately onto the retina. This process, called accommodation, is made possible by the lens's elasticity and the ciliary muscles that control its shape.
As you age, the lens becomes less flexible and more rigid. The ciliary muscles also weaken slightly with time. These changes in tandem make it harder for the eye to focus on close objects, leading to blurred near vision.
Symptoms of presbyopia
The most common symptoms of presbyopia include:
Difficulty reading small print You may find yourself holding books, menus, or your phone at arm's length to see the text clearly.
Eye strain or headache Extended periods of reading or doing close-up work can lead to discomfort or headaches.
Blurry vision at a normal reading distance Objects that are close to your eyes may appear out of focus.
Fatigue Your eyes may feel tired after trying to focus on near objects for too long.
These symptoms often become more noticeable in low-light conditions, such as reading in dim lighting, or working on a computer screen for extended periods.
How is presbyopia diagnosed?
Presbyopia is typically diagnosed during a routine eye exam. An eye care professional will assess your vision, including your ability to focus on objects at different distances. They may do a sight test to determine the appropriate lens prescription for correcting your vision.
Managing & treating presbyopia
While presbyopia cannot be prevented or reversed, there are several options available to manage and correct the condition:
1. Reading Glasses
These glasses focus near objects, making it easier to read and perform close-up tasks.
2. Prescription Glasses
If you already wear glasses for distance vision, your eyecare professional may prescribe bifocal or progressive lenses. Bifocals have two sections: one for distance vision and one for close-up work. Progressive lenses offer a gradual transition between different focal points, allowing for clear vision at varying distances.
3. Contact Lenses
Multifocal contact lenses are available for those who prefer contacts over glasses. These lenses provide clear vision at multiple distances. Monovision is another option, where your dominant eye is corrected for distance vision and the other for near vision.
4. Surgical Options
Some people opt for surgical procedures to correct presbyopia. Laser surgery can be used to create monovision. Refractive lens exchange (RLE) is another option whereby a multifocal lens implant replaces the eye's natural lens allowing you to focus on all distances.
5. Lifestyle Adjustments
Making changes to your daily routine can also help reduce the impact of presbyopia. For example, using proper lighting when reading, taking breaks from close-up work, and adjusting the font size on your digital devices can all make a difference.
When to See an Eyecare Professional
If you notice symptoms of presbyopia, it’s essential to schedule an eye exam. While presbyopia is a natural part of ageing, it’s important to rule out other eye conditions that can cause similar symptoms. Regular eye exams can also help detect other issues such as cataracts, glaucoma, or age-related macular degeneration.
Key takeaways…
Presbyopia is a common and natural part of ageing that affects nearly everyone at some point. While it can be frustrating to experience changes in your vision, the good news is that presbyopia is easily managed with corrective lenses, contact lenses, or surgery.If you’re experiencing symptoms of presbyopia, please do contact us. We can help find the best solution for your needs, so that you can continue to enjoy clear vision at all distances.