If you’re suddenly holding menus at arm’s length or finding it harder to read your phone in dim lighting, you’re not imagining things. These are common signs of presbyopia, a natural, age-related change in vision that often shows up in your 40s or 50s. You may have perfect distance vision or wear glasses already, but reading up close is a challenge all of a sudden. What’s going on? Most likely, it’s presbyopia.
What is presbyopia?
Presbyopia is a normal part of the aging process that affects your eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects. Unlike nearsightedness or farsightedness, which relate to the shape of the eye, presbyopia happens because the lens inside your eye gradually becomes less flexible over time. This loss of flexibility makes it harder for your eyes to adjust focus when switching from far to near objects. Presbyopia happens to everyone, even if you have never needed vision correction before.
Common signs of presbyopia:
- Difficulty reading small print
- Needing to hold reading material farther away
- Eye strain or headaches when doing close work
- Trouble focusing in dim lighting
What is the best treatment for presbyopia?
Presbyopia isn’t curable, but it can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery. If left uncorrected, presbyopia can lead to frequent eye strain, headaches, and increased fatigue during tasks that require up-close focus. At Vision Care Group, we offer solutions for presbyopia in Naperville, Illinois, including personalized eyewear options that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle:
- Multifocal contact lenses –Enjoy clear vision at all distances without the need for readers. These lenses are great if you’re always on the go and want a glasses-free option.
- Monovision contact lenses – This option uses one contact lens for distance and the other for near vision. It might sound unusual, but many people adjust quickly and love the freedom it provides.
- Shamir Autograph III™ and Intelligence Everyday lenses – These custom progressive lenses are designed around how you use your eyes throughout the day for a more natural, effortless visual experience.
- Varilux® progressive lenses – Trusted for decades, these lenses provide sharp, seamless vision at all distances with minimal distortion.
When to see an eye doctor
If you’re starting to notice changes in your near vision, it’s a good time to schedule a comprehensive eye exam in Naperville, Illinois or Plainfield, Illinois, at Vision Care Group. Our skilled optometrist can help determine whether presbyopia is the cause of your symptoms and recommend the best eyewear based on your daily activities, preferences, and eye health.
Presbyopia may be a normal part of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to struggle with blurry vision. With today’s advanced lens technologies, you can enjoy clear, comfortable sight at any age. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.