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Presbyopia
Table of Contents

Alternative Names
Old eyes

Defination

The age-associated progressive loss of the focusing power of the lens, resulting in farsightedness.

Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors

The focusing power of the eye, which depends upon the inherent elasticity of the lens, is gradually lost with the aging process. This results in a gradual decrease in the ability of the eye to focus on objects that are close up. It is usually noticed around the age of 45, when you realize that you need to hold reading materials further away in order to focus on them. Presbyopia occurs in everyone to some degree during the aging process.

Prevention

There is no proven prevention for presbyopia.

Symptoms

  • Decreased focusing ability for near objects
  • Eyestrain
  • Tired eyes
  • Headache

Signs & Tests

A general eye examination will be performed, including a standard ophthalmic exam and an eye examination to determine correct prescription for glasses.

Tests may include:

Treatment

Presbyopia can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. In most cases, the addition of bifocals to an existing lens prescription is sufficient. As accommodation (the ability to adapt the focus) worsens, the prescription needs to be changed accordingly.

Around the age of 65, the eyes have usually lost most of the elasticity needed to focus. However, it is usually still possible to read. You may need to hold reading materials further away, and you may require larger print and more light to read by.

People who do not need glasses for distance vision may only need half glasses or reading glasses.

Expectations (Prognosis)

Vision can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.

Complications

Progressive vision difficulty can cause problems with driving, lifestyle, or work.

Calling your doctor/health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider or ophthalmologist if eye strain or decreased ability to focus on close objects occurs.


 

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Disclaimer

The information contained above is intended for general reference purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or a medical exam. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professional before starting any new treatment. Medical information changes rapidly and while NIO and its content providers make efforts to update the content on the site, some information may be out of date. No health information on NIO, including information about herbal therapies and other dietary supplements, is regulated or evaluated by the Health Ministry of the Government of India and therefore the information should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease without the supervision of a medical doctor.