Presbyopia: an annoying but natural vision change

Once we hit the age of 40, presbyopia - or inability to focus - tends to strike. The good news is that this common vision problem affecting around one-quarter of all people with ageing eyes tends to stop worsening as you get older.

By Citro partner nib

Preserve your eyesight with these top tips

Presbyopia - it sounds awful but is remarkably common.

It happens as we age and the lens at the front of the eye becomes less flexible, making it harder to focus on close objects. It’s easily treatable with reading glasses from the optometrist.  

Alas, visual impairment and eyesight problems are strongly related to ageing. Prevalence rates for both visual impairment and blindness are greater among older age groups, as are rates of most sight-threatening eye conditions.

That’s why regular eye check-ups are vital - not only to give you reading glasses if you need them, but also to uncover serious eye diseases which can be treated before there is any long-term vision loss.

Medicare allows free eye checks at an optometrist every 3 years if you’re under 65 and one eye test a year, if you are over 65 years.

If the optometrist doesn't bulk bill, you will be able to claim some of your costs by submitting a claim to Medicare. Medicare doesn't cover the cost of glasses or contact lenses. Read more on Services Australia.

If you have private health insurance you may be able to claim for glasses or contact lenses. This will depend on your insurer and your level of cover.

For example, with nib Extras cover, you can get between 60%-75% back on optical¹, plus have your choice of healthcare provider.

Common signs you need your vision checked

There are different symptoms of eyesight deterioration.

Here are some common symptoms that are worth getting checked by an optometrist or doctor:

• Struggling with depth perception. 
• Increased difficulty with writing or reading.
• Seeing flashes of light from the corner of your eyes.
• Finding it difficult to perform previously easy tasks, such as buttoning up a shirt.
• Struggling to drive at night.
• Misjudging steps or not seeing obstacles.
• Knocking things over.
• Increased sensitivity to light.
• Seeing spots of ‘floaters’ in your eyes.
• Blurred or double vision
• Reduced colour vision.
• Vision loss at the edges or centre of your vision.
• Increased sensitivity to glare (especially if you drive at night).
• Dry eyes.