The elasticity of the lens declines through time. This process starts early in life but usually only shows effect at the age of 40 to 45 years. The minimal distance of sight has moved on average 22 cm away from the eyes.
Newspaper and books have to be hold further away for words to appear clear and readable to the eyes. This continuous decline of the eyes ability to focus on close objects is called presbyopia, the aging eye condition. Contrary to near- and far-sightedness, which are conditions of the eye, presbyopia is not the result of an illness but part of the aging process
Presbyopia can be corrected with optical aid. Reading glasses are usually necessary to compensate the lost ability to focus on near objects. Depending on age, reading and working distance, and profession. As a rule, the shorter the distance between text and eye, the stronger the needed correction. Presbyopia does not affect pre-existing near- or far-sightedness and has to be additionally adjusted through combined glasses (varifocal or bifocal lenses).
Reading glasses with single-vision strength are recommended to people with presbyopia, who work near to the eye. This includes working in an office, where most work is done on a screen and by reading, and where far sight can be neglected.
Contact lenses are another possibility, aside from glasses, to correct presbyopia. Multifocal contact lenses can correct both a pre-existing near-sightedness as well as presbyopia.
For older patients we offer additionally the possibility to surgically insert an artificial lens which replaces the older, weakened one.
Presbyopia cannot be corrected by laser surgery, as it is not a vision disorder.
The Augen Zentrum Dietikon offers individual solutions to strengthen your sight. After a thorough examination you will have the choice for the most suitable and adapted procedure.