Presbyopia is a type of farsightedness associated with age.
In the section on farsightedness, we explained that our eye is similar to a camera system*. Through the lens of the eye, we have the ability to focus on near and far objects. This is due to the fact that the lens adapts to the situation through its elasticity. With increasing age however, the lenses elasticity decreases and thus also the accommodation capacity. This process already begins at a young age, but doesn’t become noticeable before the age of about 40. In order to compensate the weakened accommodation capacity, people hold their book or newspaper further away until gradually the length of their arms is no longer sufficient.
* In order to see objects or writing at close range, the refractive power of the eye at short distance must be increased compared to the refractive power for far sight. This increase in near refractive power occurs because the lens of the eye bends to a greater extent.