What is it?
Presbyopia is an age-related condition that makes it harder to see things up close. It happens because the natural lens inside the eye gradually loses flexibility, making it more difficult to focus on near objects. A common sign is holding reading material further away to see it clearly – often called “long-arm syndrome.”
Symptoms
- Blurry near vision when reading, sewing, or using a phone
- Needing brighter light for close work
- Headaches or eye strain after reading
Causes
Presbyopia is a natural part of ageing and usually becomes noticeable from the mid-40s onwards.
Treatment
- Reading glasses – simple and effective for near tasks.
- Multifocal or progressive lenses – allow clear vision at different distances without changing glasses.
- Contact lenses – multifocal designs are available.
- Refractive surgery – certain surgical procedures may help, but are not suitable for everyone.
When to see an optometrist
If you’re finding near tasks increasingly difficult, an eye test will confirm presbyopia and provide the best options for comfortable vision.
Resources
- South African Optometric Association
- American Academy of Ophthalmology – Presbyopia
- NHS – Presbyopia
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