If you have to hold the menu at arm’s length or squint at the newspaper, you may have presbyopia. It is a normal change that affects most adults in middle age, and it is easy to correct.
What presbyopia is
The eye’s lens gradually loses flexibility with age. A flexible lens lets the eye focus on close objects. When the lens stiffens, near objects look blurry, even though distance vision may be unchanged.
Signs to watch for
- Holding reading material farther away to see it clearly
- Needing brighter light to read
- Eye strain or headaches after close work
- Difficulty reading small print, such as labels or phone screens
What affects it
Age is the main cause. Some health conditions and medicines can change the timing or severity. Diabetes, for example, can cause focusing changes at a younger age. If you notice a sudden change in your near or distance vision, have it checked soon rather than waiting.
How it is corrected
Presbyopia is corrected in several ways, and an eye doctor can help you choose the best one for your daily life:
- Reading glasses for close work
- Bifocal or progressive lenses for near and far vision
- Contact lenses, including multifocal designs
- Surgical options for some people
Vision checks
Your primary care visit can include a basic vision screening, and we can refer you to an eye doctor for a full exam. To schedule, call the Lake Orion office at (248) 690‑9181.