In an eye with presbyopia, the image of what is being viewed falls in back of the eye, necessitating glasses to focus the image directly on the back of the eye (retina).  People with presbyopia find that they need to hold reading material farther away in order to see it, indicating that they need reading glasses. In the normal eye, the image of what is being viewed falls directly on the back of the eye (retina).
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Presbyopia  Information for adults

Picture of Presbyopia: In an eye with presbyopia, the image of what is being viewed falls in back of the eye, necessitating glasses to focus the image directly on the back of the eye (retina).  Divider line
In an eye with presbyopia, the image of what is being viewed falls in back of the eye, necessitating glasses to focus the image directly on the back of the eye (retina).
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Signs and Symptoms
Although you cannot see presbyopia just by looking at the eye, you will know it is happening when you notice:

  • In order to read, you must hold the material farther from you.
  • Difficulty with needlepoint, crochet, or near-vision–requiring hobbies.
  • Difficulty seeing text on the computer screen.
  • Reduced contrast and clarity of reading material.
  • The need for brighter and more direct lighting for reading.
  • Fatigue, headache, or eyestrain – or all 3 – when reading or using the computer.
Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008