Presbyopia is a natural age-related change in the eye. According to Doctor of First-Degree Specialization Le Thi Huong Giang, from the High-Tech Eye Unit at Tam Anh Cau Giay General Clinic, when young, the eye's lens can alter its shape to increase focusing power, allowing the eye to shift focus from distant to near objects. However, with the aging process, the lens gradually hardens, and its ability to accommodate diminishes, making it difficult for the eye to focus at close distances. This condition typically manifests around 40-45 years of age and progresses with time.

Individuals with presbyopia often find small print difficult to read, needing to hold books or phones further away for clarity. They may also require more light when reading, or experience eye strain and headaches after prolonged close-up work. Some may notice blurred near vision while distant vision remains relatively clear.

According to Doctor Giang, people with presbyopia do not necessarily need to wear glasses continuously. Glasses primarily support near vision when the eyes' accommodative ability is no longer sufficient. If someone only occasionally reads, uses a phone, or performs close-up tasks, they can wear glasses as needed and remove them for distant vision, provided they have no other refractive errors. Conversely, those whose work involves frequent reading, computer use, sewing, or other tasks requiring close focus may need to wear glasses more consistently.

A medical professional is measuring eye function for an elderly person. *Thiet Tru*

The necessity for glasses also depends on an individual's refractive status and the type of lenses required. Those with presbyopia combined with myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism may be prescribed bifocal, multifocal, or specialized glasses. These lenses allow clear vision at various distances without the need for constant changes. An ophthalmologist will recommend suitable glasses based on vision test results, refractive errors, working distance, and lifestyle needs.

Wearing correctly prescribed glasses does not weaken the eyes or accelerate the progression of presbyopia. Glasses simply help to project images correctly onto the retina, providing clear vision and reducing squinting or straining when looking at near objects. Conversely, not wearing glasses when needed will not slow down presbyopia. Instead, it can lead to individuals holding objects further away, moving them closer, or squinting to see clearly, resulting in eye strain, headaches, and discomfort.

Given that each person's vision needs differ, Doctor Giang advises individuals not to self-select reading glasses based solely on age or readily available prescriptions. In addition to wearing appropriate glasses, those with presbyopia should ensure sufficient lighting when reading, maintain a reasonable viewing distance, and take regular eye breaks. When using screens, the 20-20-20 rule can be applied: every 20 minutes of near work, look at an object approximately 6 meters away for 20 seconds. This helps reduce eye strain but does not prevent presbyopia.

Doctor Giang notes that blurred vision in middle age is not always due to presbyopia; it can also be related to cataracts, retinal disease, or glaucoma. Individuals experiencing difficulty with near reading, especially from around 40 years old, should undergo an eye examination to determine the cause and obtain a suitable glasses prescription.

If blurred vision occurs suddenly, affects only one eye, or is accompanied by eye pain, flashes of light, an abnormal increase in floaters, or partial vision field loss, individuals should seek early medical attention. If vision remains blurred despite wearing glasses, or if frequent headaches or eye strain persist, it is advisable to have vision and prescription rechecked, rather than attempting to increase the lens power independently.

Trinh Mai