Presbyopia
Liputan6.com, Jakarta – Presbyopia is a vision condition caused by the natural aging process of the eyes. It gradually reduces the ability to focus on nearby objects, making activities such as reading or using a smartphone more difficult. Although it is commonly associated with older adults, presbyopia is now being diagnosed in younger age groups as well.
According to dr. Zoraya Ariefia Feranthy, Sp.M, Ophthalmologist at Mayapada Eye Centre, presbyopia develops as the eye’s focusing mechanism gradually loses its flexibility with age.
“There are muscles inside the eye that help focus light when we look at objects both near and far. As we age, the elasticity of these muscles gradually changes,” she explained during the media discussion “Longevity Era: Investing in Vision for a Better Quality of Life” on Saturday (June 20, 2026).
She added that age-related changes in the eyes are part of the body’s natural aging process and affect not only physical movement but also visual function.
“Just as the muscles in our body become stiffer with age, the eyes also become less flexible in adjusting focus between distant and near objects, especially for near vision,” she said.
According to dr. Zoraya, presbyopia is influenced not only by age but also by genetic factors and visual habits.
One possible contributing factor is spending long periods focusing on nearby objects, such as looking at a smartphone or computer screen for extended periods.
“There is a belief that prolonged near work with high visual intensity may contribute to this condition. However, genetic factors remain the most difficult to control,” she said.
As a result, people with a family history of earlier vision changes may develop presbyopia sooner, even if they maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Although presbyopia cannot be completely prevented, healthy visual habits may help reduce eye strain associated with prolonged near work. One of the most commonly recommended practices is the 20-20-20 rule.
“Every 20 minutes of near work, look at an object about 20 feet (approximately 6 meters) away for 20 seconds,” dr. Zoraya advised.
This simple habit allows the eye muscles to relax and may help reduce fatigue caused by prolonged focusing at close distances. It can also help minimize the risk of computer vision syndrome, a condition associated with extended digital screen use.
“It’s an affordable, simple habit that anyone can practice, including both children and adults,” she added.
In addition to healthy visual habits, dr. Zoraya emphasized the importance of maintaining overall eye health through balanced nutrition and adequate sleep.
“Both of these factors play an important role in supporting long-term eye health and visual longevity,” she concluded.
Source: Aditya Eka Prawira – Liputan6.com
( https://kesehatan.liputan6.com/info-sehat/read/7894563/presbiopia-adalah-gangguan-penglihatan-akibat-penuaan-mata )
