Vision at 40

Near vision

The most obvious change at this point in your life is the ability to see objects close up clearly. The lens in your eye becomes less flexible making it harder for your eye to focus on details of close up objects like text.

Eye conditions

As you reach your 40s you may notice your vision changing. Discover more about eye conditions and diseases that may impact you in your 40s and 50s below.

Glare

If you're over 40, you may notice increased glare from the sun reflecting off the windshield when driving, or from headlights at night, this is due to the lens in your eye changing and making light scatter more creating more glare.

Dry eyes

Tear ducts may deteriorate with age and lose moisture. This may lead to dry and uncomfortable eyes, which may be red and irritated. Tear production can also be influenced by hormonal changes.

Presbyopia

Between the age of 40 and 50, you will develop presbyopia. Far-sightedness is a very common problem as your eyes start to age. If you find yourself holding books and magazines at arm’s length to read, then you are likely to be presbyopic. Far-sightedness is easily dealt with by getting the right glasses lenses, all you need to do is speak to your optician.

Glaucoma

Often a hereditary condition, glaucoma can be symptomless. Damage occurs due to a build-up of pressure when fluid cannot drain from the eye properly.

Cataracts

Cataracts are distinct by the cloudy/blue patch that forms on the lens of the eye. Other symptoms of cataracts include the vision becoming increasingly blurred, cloudy or misty. It may become difficult to see at night, or in bright light. Your sight may start to take on a yellow or brown tinge, and you might develop double vision or a halo effect. Think about your environment - working or reading in brighter surroundings will help you to see more clearly. Prescription glasses will also help to strengthen your eye. Over time, your condition could get worse and eventually, surgery will be required to replace the lens with an artificial one. Cataract removal is the most common surgical procedure in the developed world and takes just 15 minutes.

AMD

A gradual loss of central vision due to the deterioration of the macula (part of the retina). There is treatment available to slow its progression.

It is natural that your eyes deteriorate with age

But you can prolong your vision by following a healthy lifestyle, eating a well-balanced diet and taking part in regular exercise. Visiting your optician on a regular basis will ensure early diagnosis of any potential eye problems which can be treated before they become too severe. Spotting an eye condition early can be key to preventing and managing its progression. If you notice any changes in your vision contact your local optician.