Dismiss Modal

Types

What Is Presbyopia?

Choose a preferred language

Presbyopia is the loss of close-up focusing. It's not a disease. It is a normal aging process of the eye. When you are younger, the lens in your eye changes shape to focus light directly on the back of your eye (the retina). But as you get older, the lens hardens and can't change its shape as easily. It then can’t focus clearly on close objects. This makes them look blurry.

Cross section of eye showing light focusing on retina normally.Cross section of eye showing light focused behind retina.


What are the symptoms?

Presbyopia makes it hard to do things close-up. This includes reading small print, using tools, and threading a needle. The first sign may be a tired feeling when you look at something close-up. Presbyopia most often starts when you’re 40 to 45 years old. But it can start at an earlier age.

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Find a doctor that's right for you.

From routine check-ups to groundbreaking treatments and beyond, Crestner Health is here to help you live your healthiest life.

Search our doctors
Related Articles
Read article
Eye Care
Retinal Detachment

With age, part of the retina can pull away from the blood vessels at the back of the eye, causing a loss of vision in the affected area. Eye surgery is needed to treat a retinal detachment.

Read article
Eye Care
Uveitis

Uveitis is inflammation inside the eye. This can be caused by injury to the eye or disease somewhere else in the body. Symptoms include eye pain, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and floating spots in the vision.

Read article
Eye Care
Ectropion

Ectropion is an eyelid that sags or turns outward. It often affects one or both lower eyelids. Ectropion leaves the eye too exposed. The eye can become dry, irritated, and even infected. This can lead to serious problems. In some cases it can lead to loss of eyesight.

Read article
Eye Care
Understanding Iritis

Iritis is the inflammation of parts of the eye. It causes pain, sensitivity to light, and other problems.