Presbyopia is a condition in which the eyes are not able to focus on near objects. This usually happens at about age 45, when the eye begins to lose its ability to change the shape of the lens so it can focus on near objects (accommodation).
Presbyopia is a normal part of aging that affects most people. Besides a decreased ability to focus on near objects, symptoms include eyestrain and headaches.
Glasses or contact lenses usually can improve this condition. As the ability to focus up close worsens, the prescription needs to be changed accordingly.
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise