Receding vision after 40 is common

Adults in their early 40s who feel as though their vision has begun to recede should know that slight changes in vision are common at this point in life. According to the American Optometric Association, problems seeing clearly at close distances, such as when reading or working at a computer, are common between the ages of 41 and 60. Known as presbyopia, this problem will progress over time.

How does age-related vision loss affect daily life?

The AOA notes that individuals who are developing presbyopia may need to hold reading materials farther away than normal to see them clearly.

Still others might feel the need to remove their eyeglasses so they can see better up close. Words may appear blurred, especially in dimly lit environments like restaurants. Another way age-related vision loss affects daily life concerns driving. Many individuals begin to experience increasing difficulty with glare when driving at night after they turn 40.

Are all adults over 40 equally vulnerable to eye and vision problems? Individuals with preexisting conditions are at a higher risk of developing vision problems after 40. Such conditions include diabetes and high blood pressure. The AOA also notes that individuals over 40 may be more vulnerable if they take medications for health conditions related to high cholesterol, thyroid problems, anxiety or depression, and arthritis. A family history of glaucoma and macular degeneration also increases the risk that individuals over 40 will develop problems with their eyes and vision.

Does everyone over 40 have the same experience with receding vision?

The symptoms of age-related vision changes like presbyopia are not the same for everyone, so the lack of common symptoms does not necessarily mean individuals’ vision isn’t receding. That’s one reason why the AOA urges all individuals between the ages of 40 and 64 to schedule eye exams at least every two years. Individuals in this age group who have been deemed “at-risk” should get annual exams.

Eyeglasses (or new prescriptions for individuals who already wear them), contact lenses and surgical procedures can help individuals with presbyopia overcome the condition. It’s important that adults over 40 recognize that the changes sparked by presbyopia typically stop around age 60.

More information about receding vision after 40 can be found at www.aoa.org.