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BY KHIRTINI K KUMARAN
PRESBYOPIA is a common age-related vision condition . It typically sets in around 40 , making it increasingly challenging to focus on nearby objects . This occurs due to the hardening of the crystalline lens in the eye , reducing its flexibility – a phenomenon known as the reduction of accommodation . However , presbyopia is often confused with long-sightedness ( hyperopia ), which stems from a shorter eyeball length or irregular corneal curvature , said Prosight Eyecare Assoc Sdn Bhd Optometrist and Founder Koh Kim Han .
“ While both conditions result in difficulty seeing objects up close , they have distinct underlying mechanisms . Presbyopia is exclusive to middle-aged individuals , while long-sightedness can affect people of all ages ,” he said .
SYMPTOMS AND PROGRESSION OF PRESBYOPIA
According to Koh , individuals grappling with presbyopia often experience difficulty
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reading , needing to hold reading materials at arm ’ s length , eye strain , and occipital headaches .
“ These symptoms can be particularly frustrating as they interfere with day-to-day activities that require close-up vision .”
He said one way to measure the progression of presbyopia is by assessing the correction needed .
“ At 40 , most people require around + 1.00 Diopters ( Ds ) of addition , rapidly increasing to approximately + 2.00Ds by age 50 .
“ After this point , the progression slows slightly , reaching a maximum of around + 2.75Ds to + 3.00Ds . Rarely do people need correction beyond + 3.00Ds due to practical working distances .”
Fortunately , there are several corrective measures available for presbyopia . These include reading glasses , multifocal glasses , contact lenses , and , for those seeking a more permanent solution , Multifocal Intraocular Lens ( IOL ) implants .
MULTIFOCAL CONTACT LENSES FOR PRESBYOPIA
“ Whether through reading glasses ,
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From Left - Koh Kim Han and Yvonne Koh . |
multifocal spectacles , or the increasingly popular multifocal contact lenses , there are solutions to enhance the quality of life for those with presbyopia ,” Koh explained .
Multifocal contact lenses have gained popularity as a means of correcting presbyopia for various reasons , as it is known for enriching the lifestyle of individuals with presbyopia .
“ Middle-aged individuals are increasingly active and open to correction options . The prevalence of computer use over traditional paper documents is another driving factor behind the rise of multifocal contact lenses .”
Multifocal contact lenses also cater to numerous situations , benefiting diverse professions and activities .
“ For instance , golfers can now easily read scorecards without squinting , multitasking housewives can effortlessly switch between tasks , engineers working with protective goggles no longer suffer from fogging issues , and many other professionals who require simultaneous near and far vision can perform their tasks with ease .”
Understanding presbyopia and its corrective options is essential for individuals navigating the challenges of middle age . “ The choice of correction ultimately depends on individual preferences and the demands of their daily activities .”
According to Koh , Johnson & Johnson Vision Care ’ s ( J & J Vision Care ) ACUVUE MOIST contact lenses , which come with hydrogel surface for low , mid and high reading power , are the go-to product for his clients with presbyopia .
“ J & J Vision Care contact lenses are always our first choice . They have a huge range of ACUVUE products that fulfil various eye and vision needs .” – The Health
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