Presbyopia (age-related long-sightedness)

What it is

Presbyopia happens as the lens inside the eye gradually becomes less flexible with age, making it harder to focus on near objects. It affects almost everyone eventually and usually becomes noticeable from the mid-40s onwards.

Common symptoms

Symptoms relate to close-up tasks and are often worse when tired or in dim light.

• Difficulty reading small print or your phone
• Holding books or screens further away to see clearly
• Eye strain or headaches after close work
• Needing brighter light for reading

Causes and risk factors

Presbyopia is caused by natural age-related stiffening of the lens. It is a normal part of ageing and happens to everyone, regardless of whether you were short- or long-sighted before.

Treatment

Reading glasses are the simplest fix. Varifocal or bifocal glasses help if you also need distance correction, and multifocal contact lenses are an option. Lens-based surgery may be considered for some people. Regular eye tests keep your prescription accurate as it changes.