Presbyopia Overview

Presbyopia is age-related loss of near vision. It eventually happens to everybody, usually after the age of 40 or 45. It is progressive and develops slowly, and may at first cause eyestrain or headaches.

If you have had clear 20/20 vision all your life, the blurriness may initially be puzzling. You would first notice it with small nearby objects, especially book print or hobbies involving close work like sewing. You might find yourself holding a magazine or menu further away to read it.

Causes of Presbyopia

Causes of presbyopia are not fully understood. For a long time it has been thought that the eye’s lens becomes harder or stiffer with age. However, there are other theories and you can read more on our page What Causes Presbyopia?

Presbyopia treatments

Eyewear

If you have always worn glasses or contacts, you will need to modify the prescription as presbyopia develops. You might need bifocals or trifocals.

If you have never needed any eyewear, you will need reading glasses at some point. Some people start by purchasing a pair of over-the-counter reading glasses. At first they solve the problem and you may end up buying several pairs: one for work, one for the bedside, one for the car, etc. As presbyopia progresses, you can buy stronger reading glasses, within limits.

At some point you will need to have your eyes tested and start wearing a pair of prescription reading glasses. When the blurriness extends to intermediate distances, prescription computer glasses might be welcome.

Monovision

There are several ways to correct one eye for near vision and, if necessary, the other eye for far vision (or leave it as is). This is known as monovision and the brain will learn to interpret the different sets of images coming from each eye. Monovision can be done with LASIK or with an intraocular lens.

Intraocular Lenses

An Intraocular Lens (IOL) is an implantable artificial lens that can replace the eye’s natural lens. This procedure is done to treat cataracts and is also FDA-approved for presbyopia. There are many IOLs to choose from and your eye surgeon will advise you in the decision.

Because the large generation of Baby Boomers has reached midlife, presbyopia is becoming more frequent. A lot of research is being done to find surgical ways of reversing it. They are still in the testing phases and many countries are contributing to the work. You can read more at Possible Future Presbyopia treatments.

For more on current presbyopia treatments, please see our page on Presbyopia treatment Options.

To find a qualified eye surgeon who can treat your presbyopia, please visit our Eye Doctor Directory today.