Presbyopia is a gradual reduction of our eyes ability to focus on near objects. It usually becomes noticeable in our early to mid 40s. The lens in the eye changes shape to focus light onto the retina so we can see clearly up close. When we are young, the lens is soft and flexible and can easily change shape. This lets us focus on objects both up-close and far away. As we age, the lens becomes more rigid and cannot change shape as easily. This makes it harder to focus in up close.

Typically when presbyopia starts, you will have told things further away to see them clearly. Presbyopia is a natural aging process and can't be prevented although we can prescribe reading glasses, multifocal glasses or contact lenses to improve your near vision.