Presbyopia
Presbyopia
Presbyopia usually becomes noticeable between the ages of 40 and 50 as an inability to focus on near objects. People in this age group often find that they have to hold things further away to see them clearly.
Presbyopia can be corrected by an optical prescription specifically designed for close work. This can be provided in many forms, including reading glasses, bifocals, trifocals and progressive lenses (multifocals).
What is presbyopia
How will presbyopia affect my vision
What causes presbyopia
With age the lens loses its flexibility and is less able to change its shape. This is a completely normal ageing change, just like stiffening joints or greying hair. The loss in lens flexibility is the reason that close focusing becomes more difficult.
Who is likely to become presbyopic
Does presbyopia come on quickly
How is presbyopia treated
Through discussion with your optometrist, you will be able to decide on the best way of preparing your prescription. The correction for presbyopia will make near objects clear but distant objects blurry. This means that if you have a pair of spectacles just for reading, you will not be able to watch television while wearing them.
Having different prescriptions for distance and reading can be a nuisance, especially if you have to change spectacles all the time. One way around the problem is the use of bifocals. These are special lenses that have a prescription for distance vision in the top half of the lens and the prescription for near vision (reading) in the lower half. Another form of spectacles used to correct presbyopia is ‘look-overs’ (half-glasses). Other options include the use of trifocals, progressive lenses and some special contact lens prescriptions.
Does presbyopia mean that my eyes are deteriorating
No. Although your close focusing system is not functioning as well as it used to, once presbyopia has been corrected with spectacles you will be able to see close things as well as you always did. Presbyopia does not represent a threat to your eyes’ health.
When should I have my prescription for presbyopia renewed
Between the ages of 45 and 65 years, your prescription is likely to change significantly. It is sensible to have your eyes examined every two to three years to review your correction and your general eye health. If you experience vision problems within two or three years of your previous examination, you should make a review appointment with your optometrist. Your optometrist will advise you of the most appropriate period between consultations.
Will wearing spectacles weaken my eyes
No. Presbyopia will continue regardless of whether spectacles are worn. Wearing spectacles will not accelerate or slow the development of presbyopia.