Often referred to as the aging eye condition, presbyopia is a common type of vision disorder that occurs as you age. Sometime in your 40s, it gets harder to see close up, but you can see things far away just fine. This is called presbyopia not to be confused with hyperopia (farsightedness) or myopia. That’s because the two are different in that presbyopia happens when the natural lens in the eye becomes less flexible. Farsightedness is the result of a misshaped eyeball that causes light rays to focus incorrectly once they have entered the eye.
Presbyopia happens naturally in people as they age. These age-related changes occur within the proteins in the lens, making the lens harder and less elastic over time. Age-related changes also take place in the muscle fibers surrounding the lens. With less elasticity, the eye has a harder time focusing up close. Common symptoms include: having a hard time reading small print or having problems seeing objects that are close. Additionally, you may experience headaches or eyestrain as a result of presbyopia.
TREATING PRESBYOPIA
VISION CORRECTION
EYEGLASSES
CONTACT LENSES
The most popular solution for presbyopia are eyeglasses with a progressive lens and multifocal contact lenses. For most people over age 40, these line-free multifocal lenses restore clear near vision and provide excellent vision at all distances. Because there are no visible “bifocal lines” in progressive lenses, they give you a more youthful appearance than bifocals or trifocals.
The most appropriate vision correction for you depends on your eyes and your lifestyle. During your eye exam we will discuss your lifestyle to develop the most effective treatment for you. If you would like to speak to an eye care professional to learn more our comprehensive eye exams, or need help booking an appointment contact our office at (805) 522-7007.
Regardless of your age or physical health getting an annual eye exam is important.