Back

Presbyopia

 

Question: What is the eye condition called Presbyopia?

 

Answer: Presbyopia is a vision condition in which the crystalline lens of the eye loses its flexibility resulting in difficulty in focusing on close objects. The loss in flexibility occurs because cells in the lens continue to grow as the eye ages. The increase in cells will eventually cause the lens to lose its elasticity and most of its focusing ability.

 

Some signs and symptoms of presbyopia include the tendency to hold reading material at arms length, blurred vision at normal reading distance and eye fatigue. Also, headaches may develop when attempting to do close work.

This vision condition is a natural part of the aging process and therefore is unpreventable. Although it may seem that this condition develops rapidly, the actual decline in vision takes place over the course of many years. Presbyopia usually becomes apparent to patients in the early to mid-forty age range.

 

The extent to which a patient is affected by presbyopia can be effectively diagnosed during a comprehensive optometric eye health examination done by your Optometrist. In order to compensate for the loss in vision, the doctor may prescribe reading glasses or glasses with bifocal, trifocal or progressive lenses. Contact lenses can also be prescribed to compensate for presbyobia. Since presbyopia can complicate other common vision conditions, your Optometrist will perform tests to determine the specific lenses that will allow the patient to see clearly.

 

If glasses or contact lenses are prescribed, they may be needed only for reading or close work. You may find, however, that wearing them all the time is more beneficial and convenient for your vision needs. Regular optometric care will insure that proper vision is maintained.

The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends the following comprehensive eye health examination guidelines:

• Birth to 5 years: Immediately, if parents sense a problem, otherwise by age 3 and again prior to entering school.
• School age children 6-19 years: Annually or every 2 years.
• Over 19 years of age: Every 2 years or sooner if recommended by your Optometrist.

 

* All content is provided for education and information, and is no substitute for the advice of your optometrist. This information is provided courtesy of the British Columbia Association of Optometrists (B.C.A.O.). The B.C.A.O. assumes no responsibility or liability arising from any errors or omissions or from the use of any information contained herein.