Presbyopia
is caused by an age-related process. This
differs from astigmatism, myopia, and hypermetropia,
which are related to the shape of the eyeball and
caused by genetic and environmental factors. Several
possible explanations for the development of presby-
opia have been proposed. The most common expla-
nation is that an age-related reduction in the ability
of the crystalline lens to accommodate develops over
time. This may be caused by either age-related ‘hard-
ening’ of the crystalline lens itself or by changes in the
lens capsule. Other, less popular theories postulate
that presbyopia may be caused by age-related reduc-
tion in the ciliary muscle or elastic components of the
ciliary body leading to reduced accommodation amplitude. |
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Regardless
of the cause presbyopia compromises near vision. When left uncorrected
it will result in a reduction in productivity when performing close-up
work, reading and participation in certain sports. The debilitating
effect of presbyopia needs to be corrected for the person to regain
near vision functionality. |
