5 Ways Your Vision Changes With Age

March 02, 2022

Most people notice changes in their vision when they get to their mid-40s. They may have trouble seeing when reading or performing other close tasks. The change in focusing ability is known as presbyopia, and it continues to progress over the years. 

 

People who wear corrective lenses may need to switch to multifocal or bifocal lenses to see better. Most common eye problems develop between 45 and 60 years old. You can find out the five ways your vision changes with age.

 

 

Changes in Focusing Ability

 

 

Presbyopia or loss of focusing ability for close vision occurs as the eye lens becomes less flexible. Lens flexibility allows the eyes to focus when moving from far to near objects. 
 

The condition becomes more advanced with age, making it difficult to perform simple tasks like reading. Fortunately, eye doctors can correct presbyopia using glasses, special contacts, and laser surgery.

 

 

Needing More Light

 

 

One of the most common vision changes that age brings is needing more light. This results from reduced pupil size as the muscles that control the pupil lose some strength. The smaller pupil is less responsive to ambient lighting. 

 

As many people age, they need brighter lighting to perform normal daily tasks. The inability to see as clearly as before calls for more lighting when reading and performing other close-up tasks.

 

 

Difficulty With Glare

 

 

Glare when driving is a common problem that affects seniors. Glare issues can make it hard for seniors to drive, especially at night. The additional glare from headlights or the sun reflecting off the pavement or windshields can be very uncomfortable. 

 

The condition occurs due to eye lens changes that cause light entering the eyes to scatter. The light does not focus on the retina, creating more glare. 

 

 

Reduced Tear Production

 

 

Tears are essential for keeping the eyes healthy and maintaining clear eyesight. Dry eye becomes a common condition as people get older. It usually occurs due to reduced tear production. As people age, the tear glands produce fewer tears and leave the eyes feeling dry and irritated. The problem is common among women going through hormonal changes. 

 

 

Difficulty Distinguishing Colors

 

 

Age often results in difficulty distinguishing colors. Color perception becomes hard as the clear lens in the eye gets discolored with age. It can be hard to differentiate between certain shades, and some people find it difficult to see some colors. It is vital to get an eye checkup for this vision change. The symptom can be a sign of eye problems. 

 

Fluctuating or frequent changes in vision can be a sign of hypertension or diabetes. The conditions can cause damage to the blood vessels found in the retina. Some issues can result in permanent vision loss. 

 

Other symptoms to watch out for are loss of peripheral or side vision, seeing distorted images, and seeing spots and flashes. It is vital to get an eye exam regularly as you age. 

 

For more on the ways your vision changes with age, visit Eye Associates of New York at our office in Midtown East, New York. You can call (212) 650-4888 today to schedule an appointment.

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