Overview
Presbyopia is the normal, gradual loss of the eye's ability to focus on near objects that comes with age, usually becoming noticeable in the forties. It happens because the lens inside the eye slowly stiffens, so reading and close work become blurred, especially in dim light. It is not a disease but a natural part of ageing that eventually affects everyone. It is easily corrected with reading glasses, and an eye test confirms the right strength.
Symptoms
- Difficulty reading small print, especially up close
- Holding books and phones further away to focus
- Blurred near vision that is worse in dim light
- Eye strain and headaches with close work
- Onset typically after the age of 40
When to see a doctor
See an eye doctor for reading difficulty after age 40 to get the right reading glasses, and to check overall eye health.
Causes
Natural stiffening of the lens inside the eye with age, reducing its ability to change focus for near objects.