The Relationship Between Age and Hyperopia: Why It's More Common in Older Adults

The Relationship Between Age and Hyperopia: Why It's More Common in Older Adults

The Relationship Between Age and Hyperopia: Why It's More Common in Older Adults

Farsightedness, or hyperopia, is a refractive defect that affects a sizable section of the population. It is when close-up objects are challenging to see, whereas distant objects are visible clearly. While it can affect people of any age, older persons are more likely to develop this condition. 

 

Understanding Hyperopia

 

Hyperopia stems from abnormally short or flat corneas. As a result, light entering the eye does not shine directly on the retina. Instead, it centers on the retina's back. This leads to difficulty seeing objects up close, such as reading a book or using a computer. In some cases, it can also cause eyestrain, headaches, and fatigue.

 

The Role of Age in Hyperopia

 

One of the most important variables influencing hyperopia development is age. Your eyes have less adaptable lenses as you age. This makes it harder for them to focus on close-up things. It is a typical side effect of aging that almost everyone experiences.

 

Risk Factors for Hyperopia

 

Other factors can raise the risk of getting hyperopia, even if age is the leading risk factor. These risk factors include:
 

  • Family history

  • Medical conditions like diabetes and multiple sclerosis

  • Medications like antidepressants and antihistamines

  • Eye injuries like a concussion or a penetrating injury

 

Symptoms of Hyperopia

 

Depending on how severe the problem is, hyperopia symptoms can vary. Some common symptoms include the following:
 

  • Difficulty seeing objects up close

  • Blurry vision

  • Eyestrain and fatigue

  • Headaches

  • Squinting or closing one eye to see more clearly

  • Eye discomfort or irritation

 

Treatment Options for Hyperopia

 

There are several ways to treat hyperopia. These include corrective lenses like eyeglasses or contact lenses or refractive procedures like LASIK. The recommended treatment will depend on the condition's severity and the patient's preferences and lifestyle.

 

Preventing Hyperopia

 

Hyperopia may not be avoidable. However, you can take specific steps to lower your risk of developing this disorder. These steps include:

 

Regular Eye Exams

 

Routine eye exams are crucial to preserving good eye health and identifying early vision abnormalities. A thorough eye checkup is essential at least every two years. More frequent exams are necessary if you have risk factors for eye disease.

 

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

 

Living a healthy lifestyle lowers your risk of developing eye illnesses. You have to maintain a healthy weight, exercise frequently, and quit smoking.

 

Wearing Protective Eyewear

 

Using safety glasses or goggles helps protect your eyes from damage that could cause hyperopia.

 

Limiting Screen Time

 

Spending extended periods in front of a computer or mobile device can cause eye strain and fatigue. It can exacerbate hyperopia symptoms. Taking short breaks helps reduce eye strain.

 

Conclusion

 

Hyperopia is a refractive error that particularly affects older adults. While age is this condition's most critical risk factor, other factors can also contribute to its development. Visiting an eye doctor for a thorough eye exam is important if you have any hyperopia symptoms. That way, the doctor can prescribe the most effective remedy.


For more on hyperopia, visit Today's Vision at our Laguna Niguel, California office. Call (949) 518-0055 to schedule an appointment today.

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