Presbyopia is commonly known as age-related difficulty in seeing near objects. The focusing mechanism of the eye deteriorates with aging, and the person can no longer see nearby objects clearly. At a young age, the eye’s natural lens is flexible and strong, allowing quick focusing on both near and distant objects. However, as age advances, the lens becomes stiffer and loses its ability to change shape with the help of the ciliary muscles. This condition is usually noticed after the age of 40 and gradually becomes more pronounced over the years.

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that presbyopia is a natural process experienced by all individuals, but quality of life can be preserved with proper diagnosis and treatment.

Presbyopia Causes

Lens hardening
The most important cause of presbyopia is the stiffening of the natural lens of the eye, which makes it difficult to focus on near objects.

Weakening of muscle function
The ciliary muscles lose flexibility with age. As the lens finds it harder to change shape, near vision becomes impaired.

Aging process
Presbyopia is a direct result of aging. It typically begins around the age of 40 and progresses until about age 65. During this period, near vision increasingly requires visual aids.

According to Op. Dr. Diclehan, presbyopia is not only due to lens hardening but also due to structural changes in the focusing muscles.

Presbyopia Symptoms

Difficulty seeing near objects
The most obvious symptom is difficulty reading small print or seeing objects up close.

Holding objects further away
Patients tend to hold reading material at arm’s length to see more clearly. This is a classic sign of presbyopia.

Eye strain and headaches
After prolonged reading or screen use, eye discomfort, fatigue, and headaches may occur.

Reduced vision in dim light
Reading becomes more difficult in low-light conditions, so patients prefer brighter environments.

Op. Dr. Diclehan notes that eye strain and headaches are common in patients who neglect presbyopia.

Who Develops Presbyopia?

Age factor
Presbyopia develops in almost everyone after the age of 40 and becomes advanced by the age of 60.

People with refractive errors
Individuals with myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism may notice presbyopia earlier.

Genetic factors
Those with a family history of early-onset presbyopia may experience it at a younger age.

Op. Dr. Diclehan states that presbyopia tends to appear earlier in hyperopic individuals.

Diagnosis of Presbyopia

Eye examination
An ophthalmologist can easily diagnose presbyopia with vision and refraction tests.

Near reading tests
Special near-vision charts are used to measure visual performance at different distances.

Refraction tests
Both near and distance vision are evaluated to determine the correct lens prescription.

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that the diagnosis of presbyopia is simple but regular follow-up examinations are essential.

Presbyopia Treatment

Eyeglasses
The most common treatment method is eyeglasses.
Reading glasses are used only for near tasks.
Bifocal lenses correct both near and distance vision.
Progressive lenses provide clear vision at all distances with a single pair of glasses.

Contact lenses
Multifocal contact lenses correct both near and distance vision. With monovision lenses, one eye is corrected for distance and the other for near vision.

Surgical treatment options
Laser surgery such as LASIK can reshape the cornea to improve near vision.
Corneal inlays are small implants placed in the cornea to aid near focusing.
Lens replacement surgery removes the natural lens and replaces it with a multifocal artificial lens.

Lifestyle recommendations
Good lighting, frequent breaks during reading, balanced nutrition, and resting the eyes help manage presbyopia.

Op. Dr. Diclehan highlights that treatment should be personalized based on eye structure, lifestyle, and professional needs.

Cost of Presbyopia Treatment

Because treatment methods vary, it is not possible to specify a single cost. The expenses of eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgical approaches differ depending on lens type, technology used, and the treatment center.

Op. Dr. Diclehan advises patients to prioritize health and quality of life rather than focusing solely on cost, and to choose the method most suitable for their eye condition and needs.

Effects of Presbyopia on Daily Life

Presbyopia significantly affects daily activities. Difficulty reading phone screens, struggling to see price labels, and experiencing eye strain while using computers are among the most common complaints. This may negatively affect both social and professional life.

According to Op. Dr. Diclehan, untreated presbyopia can seriously reduce quality of life, especially in individuals who are actively working.

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis helps manage presbyopia more effectively. Additionally, other eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal disorders may be detected during routine examinations.

Op. Dr. Diclehan recommends regular eye examinations after the age of 40 to control presbyopia and detect other eye conditions early.

Presbyopia is a natural result of aging and presents as difficulty seeing near objects. The most common symptoms include near-vision difficulty, eye strain, headaches, and trouble reading in dim light. Treatment options include eyeglasses, contact lenses, and surgical procedures. Costs vary depending on the chosen method and individual needs. With appropriate treatment, quality of life can be preserved. Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that although presbyopia is a natural process, it can be effectively managed so that daily life is not significantly affected.