Jakarta – Presbyopia, commonly known as age-related farsightedness or “aging eyes,” is a vision condition associated with the natural aging process. It gradually reduces the eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects.
According to dr. Zoraya Ariefia Feranthy, Sp.M, an ophthalmologist at Mayapada Eye Centre, the eye contains muscles that help focus light when viewing objects at different distances.
As people age, these muscles gradually lose their elasticity.
“Just like our knees begin to ache and our backs become stiffer as we age, our eyes also undergo the natural aging process,” said dr. Zoraya during the Health Talk with Mayapada Eye Centre in Central Jakarta on Saturday (June 20, 2026).
Dr. Zoraya explained that the aging process of the eyes is influenced by multiple factors, including genetics and daily habits. Several studies have suggested that prolonged periods of near work may be associated with an increased risk of developing presbyopia.
However, she emphasized that more research is still needed to confirm this relationship.
“As a result, presbyopia is now being identified in younger individuals. However, further studies are needed to better understand this association,” she said.
“The factor we cannot control is genetics. If someone has a hereditary tendency to experience earlier aging of the eyes, presbyopia may develop sooner, even if they maintain a healthy lifestyle,” she added.
To help maintain eye health, dr. Zoraya recommended following the 20-20-20 rule, a simple technique that helps relax the eyes during prolonged near work, such as using a laptop.
After looking at a nearby object for 20 minutes, shift your focus to an object approximately 20 feet (6 meters) away for 20 seconds.
“Looking into the distance allows the eye muscles to relax. This simple habit can help reduce the risk of computer vision syndrome and eye fatigue caused by prolonged periods of near work,” she concluded.
Source: Averus Kautsar – detikHealth
