What Vision Problems Should I Worry About as I Get Older?

As we get older, it’s natural to notice changes in our eyesight. Reading fine print may become more difficult, colors might not seem as vibrant, and nighttime driving can start to feel more challenging. While some of these changes are part of the normal aging process, others could be early signs of more serious eye conditions.

At Prestera Eye Medical Group, board-certified ophthalmologist Tory Prestera, MD, PHD and glaucoma specialist Howard Guan, MD emphasize the importance of regular comprehensive eye exams—especially after age 40—to detect age-related vision problems early and protect long-term eye health. Understanding the most common age-related eye conditions can help you stay proactive and maintain clear, comfortable vision for years to come.

1. Presbyopia (Age-Related Nearsightedness)

One of the first changes most people notice in midlife is presbyopia. This condition occurs when the lens inside the eye becomes less flexible, making it harder to focus on close objects such as a book, phone screen, or sewing needle.

Presbyopia typically starts to appear in the early to mid-40s and continues to progress with age. Reading glasses, bifocals, or progressive lenses can correct this problem easily. For those seeking freedom from glasses, options such as multifocal contact lenses or refractive lens exchange may also be considered.

While presbyopia can be an inevitable part of aging, it’s usually harmless and highly manageable with proper vision correction.

2. Cataracts

Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision decline among older adults. They typically occur when the eye’s normally clear lens becomes clouded, leading to symptoms such as:

• Blurry or hazy vision
• Sensitivity to glare and bright lights
• Faded colors
• Difficulty seeing at night

Cataracts often develop slowly and painlessly, so many people don’t realize how much their vision has changed until it significantly affects daily activities.

Fortunately, modern cataract surgery is generally considered one of the safest and most effective procedures in medicine. During this surgery, the cloudy lens is replaced with a clear artificial lens (intraocular lens or IOL), restoring crisper and brighter vision.

3. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, usually due to elevated eye pressure. It’s sometimes called the “silent thief of sight” because it can cause irreversible vision loss without noticeable symptoms in the early stages.

The risk of developing glaucoma increases with age, especially after age 60. Regular eye exams are critical for early detection since the disease can often be controlled with medicated eye drops, laser treatments, or surgery if caught early.

Symptoms that may appear in later stages include:

• Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
• Blurred or tunnel vision
• Halos around lights

Dr. Prestera and Dr. Guan use advanced diagnostic tools to measure eye pressure, assess the optic nerve, and monitor subtle changes over time. Early detection is key to preventing permanent vision loss from glaucoma.

4. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 50. It affects the macula—the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision that you use for reading, driving, and recognizing faces.

There are two main types of AMD:

• Dry AMD: The more common form, caused by thinning of the macula and accumulation of small deposits called drusen.
• Wet AMD: A less common but more severe form, caused by abnormal blood vessel growth that leaks fluid or blood under the retina.

Symptoms of AMD may include:

• Blurred or distorted central vision
• Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
• Dark or empty spots in your central vision

Although there is currently no cure for macular degeneration, treatments can help slow its progression and preserve vision. Nutritional supplements (such as those containing lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc) and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking are commonly recommended.

At Prestera Eye Medical Group, patients receive individualized care and advanced monitoring to manage AMD and protect their remaining vision.

5. Diabetic Retinopathy

For individuals with diabetes, diabetic retinopathy can be a major concern. High blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to leakage, swelling, or abnormal vessel growth. Over time, this can cause serious vision impairment or blindness.

Symptoms may not appear until the disease is advanced, but can include:

• Fluctuating or blurry vision
• Spots or dark strings (“floaters”)
• Difficulty distinguishing colors

The best way to prevent vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is through tight blood sugar control and regular dilated eye exams. Early detection allows for effective treatment options such as laser therapy, injections, or surgery to preserve vision.

6. Dry Eye Syndrome

As we age, tear production often decreases and the composition of tears changes, typically leading to chronic dryness, irritation, and redness. Certain medications, hormonal changes, or environmental factors can worsen these symptoms.

While Dry Eye Syndrome may sound minor, it can significantly affect comfort and visual clarity. Treatments range from artificial tears and prescription drops to in-office procedures that improve tear quality and reduce inflammation. Dr. Prestera and Dr. Guan can recommend a personalized treatment plan to restore eye comfort and protect the surface of your eyes.

7. Retinal Detachment and Other Retinal Disorders

Aging also increases the risk of retinal conditions, including retinal tears or detachment, which can cause sudden, severe vision loss if not treated immediately. Warning signs include:

• Flashes of light
• Sudden appearance of floaters
• A dark curtain or shadow over part of your vision

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact Prestera Eye Medical Group right away. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to save your vision.

Protecting Your Vision as You Age

The best defense against age-related eye diseases is proactive eye care. Here are a few ways to protect your vision:

• Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams (at least once a year after age 60).
• Wear UV-protective sunglasses outdoors.
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, fish, and antioxidants.
• Quit smoking, as smoking can increase the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.
• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

See Clearly at Every Age

Aging may bring natural changes to your eyesight, but many serious eye diseases can be prevented, or their progression slowed, with early detection and expert care.

At Prestera Eye Medical Group, our eye doctors are dedicated to helping patients protect and preserve their vision with advanced diagnostic technology and compassionate, individualized treatment. Whether you’re due for a routine exam or have noticed changes in your vision, their team is here to provide the care and clarity you deserve.

Contact our practice today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and ensure your eyes stay healthy and your vision remains sharp well into the future.