More than three quarters of over–35s in South Devon may be displaying at least one of the signs associated with presbyopia – despite half believing their eyesight is good.
The figure has been revealed by Specsavers as raisesawareness 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 something at arm’s length to read it, increasing the font size on a mobile phone and asking to borrow people’s glasses were some of the most common behaviours South Devon 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 the region admitting to reading their bus number incorrectly (19%) or struggling to read maps (23%).
Other signs include turning on the big light to read something, blurred vision when looking at an object, and noticing perplexed expressions on your child’s face when you try to read things.
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’.
Simon Simmonds, a director at the Specsavers Torquay stores, 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 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
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