What is presbyopia?

Presbyopia is a condition where your eyes gradually lose the ability to focus as you get older. You may notice that reading and focusing on close objects becomes more difficult. You will still see distant objects clearly.

Presbyopia is a natural part of ageing. It is usually managed with glasses or contact lenses.

What are the symptoms of presbyopia?

Presbyopia typically causes difficulty focusing on nearby objects. You may notice:

• holding objects at arm's length to see them clearly
• difficulty reading fine prints, especially in poor light
• your eyes becoming tired quickly when reading
• squinting to improve focus
• feeling drowsy

The strain of focusing your eyes may also give you headaches.

What causes presbyopia?

As you get older, the lens in your eye becomes harder and less flexible. This makes it harder to focus on close objects. People often notice changes in their vision around the age of 40 years.

Presbyopia usually worsens until about the age of 65 years. It's a natural part of ageing. There is no known way to avoid it.

When should I see an optometrist?

If you are having difficulties with your eyesight, you should see an optometrist to have your eyes tested. You should also see an optometrist if you think you may have presbyopia.

How is presbyopia diagnosed?

Your optometrist or ophthalmologist will thoroughly check your eyes during an eye examination. If you already wear glasses or contact lenses, they can tell you if you need a new prescription.

As presbyopia continues to develop as you get older, your prescription may change a lot between the ages of 45 and 65. It's recommended that you have an eye test every 2 years.

How is presbyopia treated?

Presbyopia is usually managed with glasses and sometimes with contact lenses. Many people begin with simple reading glasses. Prescription bifocals, multifocals and more specialised lenses are also available.

Wearing glasses to correct presbyopia won't slow down the condition and will not weaken your eyes.

Surgical options are also available to improve the eyesight of people with presbyopia. They cannot be undone and may not be fully effective. If you are thinking about surgery, speak to your doctor and ophthalmologist.

Living with presbyopia

Living with presbyopia involves using glasses or contact lenses to help your eyes focus better. Regular eye check-ups are important as presbyopia can worsen as you get older.

It is always important to take care of your eyes.

What are the complications of presbyopia?

If presbyopia is left unmanaged, you may continue to have difficulty with reading. You may also continue to experience drowsiness or headaches.

Once presbyopia is corrected these symptoms will also resolve.

Can presbyopia be prevented?

You cannot prevent presbyopia. Most people will notice changes in their vision at some stage. Some people may notice a sudden change while others may experience slow changes.

Resources and support

• Good vision for life provides information about presbyopia.
• Vision Australia provides information and support for people with low vision and their families.
• You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people?

Find an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) or Affiliate near you.