What Is Presbyopia?

Presbyopia causes blurry vision up close due to changes in the eyes’ lenses that occur naturally as we age (typically starting around age 40). Some people refer to presbyopia as “age-related farsightedness,” but this isn’t an accurate term for presbyopia because it’s not the same as typical farsightedness.

Presbyopia is the main reason so many middle-aged folks start wearing reading glasses. In fact, many people first become aware of presbyopic vision changes when they have to hold reading material at arm’s length in order to read more clearly.

Does Everyone Get Presbyopia?

Yes—research suggests that presbyopia affects almost everyone as they age and is “nearly universal” in people over 65. It develops regardless of gender, location, and habits. (However, the extent to which you experience presbyopia can vary based on your daily visual demands and whether you are already nearsighted or farsighted.)

Presbyopia vs. Hyperopia vs. Myopia: What’s the Difference?

Presbyopia causes trouble with your near vision, and hyperopia can too (but not always).  However, they aren’t in the same condition. 

Presbyopia occurs when the lens of your eye can’t focus light as well because of its thickness and inelasticity. Hyperopia, on the other hand, is caused by a short eyeball shape or a cornea that lacks the right curvature for focusing light on the retina.

As for presbyopia vs. myopia, the same kind of differentiation applies. Myopia (or nearsightedness) happens when your eyeball is too long, or your cornea is too steeply curved. It’s also different from presbyopia because it impairs your distance vision, not your near vision.

How Is Presbyopia Diagnosed?

An eye doctor can diagnose presbyopia by conducting an eye exam. They’ll test your visual acuity, see how your eyes refract light, and complete a refraction test to determine your eye prescription.