eye care support

Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a very common age-related change that makes it harder to see clearly at normal reading distance. It is not a disease—just a natural part of ageing.

AP

Presbyopia makes close tasks more difficult, especially in poor lighting. You may notice:

Needing to hold reading material further away
Difficulty with tasks like reading, sewing or using a phone
Eye strain, headaches or tiredness after close work
Headaches after prolonged near work
AP

Distance vision is not affected with this common condition.

Presbyopia FAQs

Inside the eye is a small, flexible lens that changes shape to focus on near objects—a process called accommodation.

As we age, this lens gradually becomes less flexible and cannot adjust as easily. This reduced flexibility makes close focusing harder.

It’s a normal ageing change, similar to stiffening joints or greying hair.

Everyone. Presbyopia is a universal part of ageing and cannot be prevented.

It may feel sudden, but the change is gradual.

Most people notice symptoms between 40 and 45. Presbyopia continues to increase until around age 65 and after that, it usually stabilises.

Presbyopia is corrected with lenses designed for close work.

Options include:

  • Reading glasses
  • Bifocals (distance in the top, near in the bottom)
  • Half-glasses (“look-overs”)
  • Trifocals (distance, intermediate and near)
  • Progressive lenses (smooth transition between all distances)
  • Specialised contact lens options

Your optometrist will recommend the best option based on your visual needs and daily tasks.

Presbyopia cannot be treated with surgery.

No. Presbyopia affects focusing ability, not eye health. With the right lenses, you can see close objects just as clearly as before.

Between ages 45 and 65, your prescription may change regularly.

Most people benefit from an eye examination every two to three years, or sooner if symptoms arise. Your optometrist will advise the ideal review interval.

No. Wearing reading glasses does not speed up or slow down presbyopia.

The change will occur naturally over time, regardless of whether you wear glasses.