How Aging Affects Nearsightedness and Farsightedness

Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, and farsightedness, or hyperopia, are common eye diseases that cause blurry vision. People with nearsightedness have difficulty seeing objects far away, while those with farsightedness may not be able to see objects that are close up clearly. At Michigan Eyecare Institute, which serves Dearborn, Livonia, and Southfield, MI, we provide eye exams to determine a diagnosis and provide treatment to slow down the progression of myopia and hyperopia. You can learn more about how aging affects these diseases below:

The Differences Between Nearsightedness and Farsightedness

Both nearsightedness and farsightedness occur because the shape of the eye or the lens does not refract light correctly. Usually, your eye focuses light directly on the retina, which is located at the back of the eye. Nearsightedness causes the light to focus in front of the retina, while farsightedness focuses light behind the retina. However, each disease can be treated with corrective lenses or surgical procedures.

How Aging Impacts Nearsightedness and Farsightedness

Nearsightedness often runs in families and often begins during childhood. While the disease can stabilize at age 20, it can still affect those who are in their 30s and 40s. This may be due to an increase in screen time and use of digital devices. In addition, myopia is common among those 40 and older, as your vision begins to determinate again at age 40.

Presbyopia is another common condition among adults 40 and older, which results from the lenses in our eyes stiffening due to the aging process. Presbyopia causes farsightedness, which makes it challenging to focus on objects that are near. You may notice adults who are over the age of 40 holding items at arm’s length to help their eyes focus due to the disease. However, presbyopia is treatable and progression often slows down around 65 years of age.

Contact us for an Appointment Today 

If you are experiencing symptoms of nearsightedness or farsightedness, our team at  Michigan Eye Institute in Dearborn, Livonia, and Southfield, MI, can help. We can perform an eye exam to determine and accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that will help preserve your vision. To learn about our treatments or to schedule an appointment, contact us today!