Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Presbyopia is an age-related condition in which the eye's lens loses its ability to focus on close objects. This is due to the hardening of the lens and weakening of the ciliary muscles over time.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Presbyopia typically begins to affect individuals around the age of 40.
The condition is caused by a loss of elasticity in the eye's lens, making it difficult to focus on nearby objects.
Symptoms include difficulty reading small print, needing to hold reading material farther away, and experiencing eye strain or headaches.
Presbyopia can be corrected with reading glasses, bifocals, or contact lenses specifically designed for near vision.
Unlike other refractive errors such as myopia or hyperopia, presbyopia is a natural part of aging and cannot be entirely prevented.
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition where distant objects appear blurry while close ones can be seen clearly.
Hyperopia: Hyperopia, or farsightedness, is a condition where close objects appear blurry while distant ones are clearer.
Astigmatism: Astigmatism is a common vision condition characterized by an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens that leads to blurred or distorted vision.