As we age, our bodies change—and so do our eyes. For many, the first sign is a subtle decline in reading vision or difficulty seeing clearly at night. But ageing eyes can present in many ways, and understanding the symptoms early can help protect your long-term vision and quality of life.
At Vision Clinic Sydney, we often see patients over 40 noticing changes in their eyesight. This blog covers the common signs of ageing eyes, why they occur, and what solutions are available to maintain healthy vision for years to come.
What Are the Common Eye Problems With Age?
Ageing eyes go through both structural and functional changes. Here are the most common eye problems that occur with age:
1. Presbyopia (Loss of reading ability)
Presbyopia is a natural part of ageing that typically begins to affect people over the age of 40. It occurs when the lens inside the eye loses flexibility, making it harder to focus on close objects. You may find yourself holding reading materials at arm’s length or struggling with tasks like threading a needle.
Solution: Reading glasses, bifocals, or multifocal contact lenses can effectively correct presbyopia. In some cases, lens replacement surgery or LASIK eye surgery may be recommended for longer-term correction.
2. Cataracts
Cataracts occur when the eye’s natural lens becomes clouded, leading to a gradual decline in vision. It’s one of the most common age-related eye issues, especially in individuals over 60.
Symptoms include:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Diminished colour perception
- Halos around light, especially at night
Solution: Cataract surgery is a routine and highly successful procedure where the clouded lens is replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL), restoring visual clarity and brightness.
3. Glaucoma
Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma typically progresses without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. It results from damage to the optic nerve, and if left untreated, it can lead to permanent blindness.
Solution: Early detection is critical. At Vision Clinic Sydney, we offer advanced diagnostic tools to identify glaucoma in its earliest stages. Treatment focuses on lowering eye pressure and may include medicated eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery. Surgical options include glaucoma laser surgery, penetrating filtration surgery, non-penetrating filtration surgery and microincisional glaucoma surgery (MIGS).
4. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD is a progressive condition that impacts the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. It is a major cause of visual impairment among people aged 60 and above.
Symptoms include:
- Difficulty reading or recognising faces
- Distortion in straight lines (they may appear wavy)
- Dark, blurry, or empty areas in the centre of vision
- Colours appearing less vibrant
Solution: While there’s no cure, early intervention can slow progression. Treatment options include dietary supplements (AREDS), anti-VEGF injections, and laser therapy depending on the stage of the disease.
Signs of Ageing Eyes to Watch For
Even before a diagnosis, there are signs that your eyes are ageing:
- Eyesight getting worse in your 40s
- Frequent need for brighter light when reading
- Difficulty adjusting between light and dark environments
- Increased sensitivity to glare
- Eye strain or fatigue after screen use
- Trouble with night vision or driving at night
If you’re experiencing any of the above, it may be time for a comprehensive eye exam.
How Vision Clinic Sydney Can Help
At Vision Clinic Sydney, we understand that ageing eyes require proactive and personalised care. We provide diagnosis and treatment for a range of conditions such as:
- Cataracts
- Presbyopia
- Glaucoma
- Dry eye syndrome
- Age related Macular Degeneration
We also offer routine eye checks to monitor early signs of eye disease and offer tailored solutions based on your needs.
How To Book an Assessment
To request an appointment or if you have an enquiry, please contact us via the following ways:
- Call or message us: +612 9222 9188
- Email us: reception@visionclinicsydney.com.au
- Book online via our website
FAQs
What are the signs of ageing eyes?
Common signs include blurry near vision, increased glare sensitivity, difficulty seeing at night, and frequent eye fatigue. These changes often indicate natural ageing or conditions like presbyopia or cataracts.
Is eyesight getting worse in your 40s normal?
Yes, it’s a normal part of ageing. Most people begin to notice presbyopia, where reading small print becomes difficult, starting in their early to mid-40s.
Do eyes get smaller with age?
Your eyeball itself doesn’t shrink, but the appearance of your eyes may change. Ageing can cause the surrounding muscles to weaken and fat pads to shift, resulting in a more sunken or droopy look.
Do eyes grow as you age?
No, eyes generally reach full size in early childhood and do not grow further. However, internal eye structures may change with conditions like glaucoma, which can affect eye pressure and shape.
Do your eyes change colour as you get older?
Eye colour usually remains the same throughout life, but certain subtle changes can occur. A blue or grey ring around the iris (arcus senilis) may develop in older adults and is typically harmless. If you notice a significant or sudden colour change, it’s important to consult an eye specialist.
Can Vision Clinic Sydney help with age-related eye problems?
Yes, Vision Clinic Sydney provides comprehensive care for ageing eyes, from routine eye exams to specialised treatment for cataracts, glaucoma, and more. Our team offers tailored recommendations to help maintain your best possible vision as you age.
General Information Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information on this site is general in nature and may not reflect current medical developments or research. Your reliance on any information provided by this site is solely at your own risk.
