What is presbyopia?
Presbyopia is the gradual loss of your eyes' ability to focus on close objects. It is a normal part of aging — not a disease — and it happens to everyone.
The lens inside your eye is flexible when you are young, changing shape to focus at different distances. Over time, the lens stiffens and loses that flexibility. By your mid-40s, most people start noticing the effects.
Presbyopia is not the same as nearsightedness or farsightedness. You can be nearsighted and still develop presbyopia. In fact, people who have never needed glasses before often notice presbyopia first.
What are the signs?
You may have presbyopia if you notice:
- Holding reading material farther away to see it clearly
- Difficulty reading small print, especially in dim light
- Eye strain or headaches after reading, screen work, or other close tasks
- Needing more light to read comfortably
- Blurry vision at arm's length that clears when you move things farther away
These symptoms usually develop gradually over several years.
Can presbyopia be prevented?
No. Presbyopia is a structural change in the lens of the eye that happens with age. It cannot be prevented with exercises, supplements, diet, or screen habits.
The good news is that it can be effectively managed. There are several options depending on your lifestyle, prescription, and preferences.
How is presbyopia managed?
Progressive lenses
Progressive lenses are the most common solution. They provide a smooth gradient from distance vision at the top, through intermediate (computer distance) in the middle, to reading at the bottom — with no visible line.
Most patients prefer progressives over bifocals because the transition between zones is seamless. There is a short adjustment period when you first wear them.
Bifocals
Bifocals have two distinct zones separated by a visible line: the top for distance and the bottom for reading. They work well but skip the intermediate zone, which can make computer work less comfortable.
Reading glasses
If you only need help for close tasks and your distance vision is fine, simple reading glasses may be enough. These are available over the counter, but a proper prescription ensures the power is right for each eye.
Multifocal contact lenses
Multifocal contacts provide both distance and near vision in the same lens. They work well for many people who prefer not to wear glasses. A contact lens fitting is needed to find the right design and power.
Monovision contact lenses
With monovision, one eye is corrected for distance and the other for near. Your brain learns to use the appropriate eye for each task. This works well for some patients but not everyone — a trial period is recommended.
Prescription eye drops
Drops like VIZZ (aceclidine, FDA-approved 2025) and Vuity (pilocarpine) temporarily improve near vision by constricting the pupil. They are not permanent solutions, may have side effects, and VIZZ is not yet available in Canada.
For more on VIZZ, see What are VIZZ eye drops?
Does presbyopia keep getting worse?
Yes, but it stabilizes. Presbyopia progresses gradually from the mid-40s and typically levels off in the early to mid-60s. During that time, your reading prescription (add power) will increase, and your lenses will need updating every 1 to 2 years.
After it stabilizes, your near prescription stays relatively constant.
When should I see an optometrist?
Book an eye exam if you are over 40 and:
- Noticing any of the signs listed above
- Holding your phone or reading material farther away than you used to
- Getting headaches or eye fatigue from screen work
- Have never needed glasses but are now struggling with close tasks
An exam can confirm whether presbyopia is the cause and rule out other conditions. Your optometrist can then recommend the best option for your needs and lifestyle.
Related
- What are VIZZ eye drops? — the new presbyopia eye drop
- Understanding your eye prescription — what add power and other values mean
- Contact lenses: fittings, comfort, and complex prescriptions — including multifocal options
Noticing changes in your reading vision?
If close-up tasks are getting harder, an eye exam can confirm whether presbyopia is the cause and help you find the right solution.
Prefer to talk first? Call or text us at 416-703-2797.
Last reviewed: February 24, 2026