Presbyopia

When we are young, the lens in the eye can change its shape allowing us to focus on near objects. After the age of 40, the lens becomes noticeably more rigid and reading at close range becomes increasingly difficult. This condition is called presbyopia and is a normal part of the maturing eye.

What are the symptoms of Presbyopia?

Presbyopia is usually first noticed by difficulties reading in low light or by having to hold reading materials further away for best focus. Often, you may find it will take longer for eyes to re-focus from reading to distance and from distance to reading. Spectacles will often be required to give additional focusing power to the eye as reading proves more problematic,  though due to their poor quality and poor optical performance, ready readers (off-the-shelf magnifiers) should not be worn. The more mature eye degrades in quality as the years go by and optically-correct near vision lenses are advised for all.

The distance of reading dictates which focussing power you would require. For example, looking at a computer screen will require a different power for reading a book. We will ask you about your lifestyle and take this into account when prescribing your reading addition to ensure clarity of vision for the required visual task.