Presbyopia Sounds awful doesn't it? But really, it's not that bad! You probably have friends or family who have Presbyopia. Its much more common than you think! Optometrist.com.au takes a look at the ins and outs of Presbyopia.

What is presbyopia?

Presbyopia is a normal aging process of the eyes that causes close vision to become difficult. Its onset is usually between the ages of 40 and 50, and it affects the majority of people. People with presbyopia usually require reading glasses.

What problems might a person who has presbyopia experience?

A person who has developed presbyopia will have difficulty with reading and close tasks.

Who develops presbyopia?

Almost everyone will develop some degree of presbyopia in their lifetime, with the majority of people developing the problem between ages 40 and 50.

What causes presbyopia?

Through a series of muscles and structures, the eye has its own auto-focus system, which works when we look at things up close. With age, this auto-focus system stiffens up and loses its ability to focus. Presbyopia is a natural aging change.

Can presbyopia be cured?

At this stage - no. But scientists are searching for a means to halt or slow the stiffening process.

What should I do if I think I might have presbyopia?

You should arrange for an eye examination with your local Optometrist. Eye examinations in Australia are supported by the Medicare system for all Australian residents. Referrals are not required for an eye examination with an Optometrist. Your Optometrist will advise you if you have developed presbyopia, and will be able to recommend the best form of treatment if it is required.

What options do I have if I have presbyopia?

The safest and easiest option for a person with presbyopia is to wear reading glasses.

Alternately, contact lenses and laser surgery can be used to reduce the symptoms of prebyopia. This is managed with 'monovision' where one eye is corrected for normal vision, and the other eye is partially corrected for near vision. Monovision is relatively successful, but can cause problems with depth perception and judgement.