Presbyopia

Presbyopia is the gradual decline in the ability to focus on close objects or to see small print. Regardless of your prior vision correction needs, presbyopia is considered a normal and almost inevitable part of the aging process.

Most people develop presbyopia around the age of 40. You may feel the impact sooner if you're regularly involved in near-vision tasks such as reading or working with small objects. However, using your eyes does not make the situation worse.

Symptoms include:

• Straining to read newsprint, or holding it at arms length
• Confusing similar numbers, such as 8 and 3
• Difficulty focusing on pricetags or the time on a wristwatch

Reading glasses, PC lenses, or bifocals can usually correct this condition. Progressive bifocals or multifocal lenses do not have that tell-tale line, giving you a clearer, more natural view.