Presbyopia is the loss of your eyes’ ability to focus on nearby objects as you get older, usually occurring around the age of 40. You might find yourself struggling to read books or even text messages even when you are wearing your usual prescription glasses or contact lenses. Presbyopia affects the quality of life where near tasks viewing is a part of daily life. Studies have shown that there is an estimated 2 billion people experience presbyopia in 2015, and the numbers will continue to increase as people get older. If left untreated, presbyopia could me a major inconvenience to your daily life, as you find performing even simple daily tasks made much more difficult when you are unable to focus on small print.

When you are young, your clear lens (that sits behind your eye) is soft and flexible, allowing light to focus into your retina to see clearly at far or near. Presbyopia occurs when the lens of your eye become more rigid when you reach around 40, thus it may not be able to change shape as easily as when you are younger. This makes it harder for you to focus on nearby objects.  Do note that there are currently no methods in reversing the aging process that leads to presbyopia. However, presbyopia can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses or surgery.

Eyeglasses are a popular method of correcting presbyopia, with different lens type suited to different vision needs. Progressive lenses provide good vision for all distances, with a gradient of increasing lens power for different distances. Bifocal lenses are also another option; however, they are limited to two different eye powers, allowing for lesser flexibility for many presbyopia patients. Bifocal lenses also show your true age since the near segment is visible. Lastly, reading glasses can be used as well, worn only when reading fine print on your digital screens or printed materials.

Do check with any of our Optometrists or Opticians at Focus Point outlets nationwide for the most suitable prescription lenses based on your current eye condition. Our team of professionals will be more than happy to help you find the right eyewear for your convenience in conducting your everyday tasks. Find out more when you visit us today!

 

Sources:

https://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/presbyopia.htm

https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-presbyopia