MORE than half (52%) of over 35s in Scotland admit to displaying at least one of the signs associated with the eye condition presbyopia – despite more than 40% believing their eyesight is good.
The figure was revealed by Specsavers as it seeks to raise awareness of the condition, which is most common in adults over 40. Presbyopia is the gradual loss of your eyes’ ability to focus on nearby objects and is a natural part of ageing.
The research found holding squinting when trying to focus on objects or text, keeping something at arm’s length to read it, turning the big light on or a lamp to read and zooming in on your phone to read things were some of the most common behaviours people adopted to compensate for a change in their vision.
The survey also revealed that the changes to vision can lead to some blunders, with those surveyed in Scotland admitting to misplacing important items (20%) or struggling to read maps (15%). Other signs include increasing the font size on your phone in order to read better, struggling to adjust vision when switching between long and short distance and having blurred vision whilst attempting to look at an object.
Presbyopia usually becomes noticeable in your mid to late 40s and gradually worsens until 65. An optician will check your vision in the same way as they would to determine whether someone is short-sighted or ‘myopic’.
Dr Josie Forte, optometrist at Specsavers, says: ‘Most of us will experience some effects of presbyopia as we age because of subtle changes in the lens of our eye. However, it really isn’t something to worry about, but it is important to see an optician if you experience any changes in your vision.
‘There are a variety of solutions on offer, including reading glasses, varifocals, multifocal contact lenses or a combination of both, depending on what you prefer. Your local optician can recommend the best treatment for you, so we would recommend booking an eye test if you are experiencing any symptoms.’
Stand-up comedian Jen Brister will be headlining a new comedy club in London later this month to put the spotlight on the common eye condition.
By launching the ‘At-Arm’s-Length’ Comedy Club, Specsavers aims to highlight the symptoms of presbyopia and encourage people to take action if they recognise any of the signs and behaviours.
Find out more here: visit At-Arm’s-Length Comedy Club | Specsavers UK
For more information or to book an appointment visit specsavers.co.uk/eye-health/presbyopia.