Authors : Sneha Shree

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 8 - August

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/yc4yh465

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26aug307

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Presbyopia, an age-related decline in near vision resulting from diminished accommodative ability of the crystalline lens, represents one of the most prevalent refractive errors globally, currently affecting approximately 1.85 billion individuals with projections reaching 2.7 billion by 2050. This review examines the multifaceted impact of presbyopia on daily functioning and explores current management strategies across optical, surgical, and lifestyle domains. Uncorrected presbyopia imposes substantial individual and societal burdens, including significant productivity losses exceeding US$25 billion annually, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to correction remains limited. The condition adversely affects near-work activities such as reading, computer use, and mobile device operation, while also influencing psychosocial well-being and social participation. Comprehensive assessment requires detailed history-taking, measurement of near and distance visual acuity, refractive evaluation, and accommodation testing to distinguish presbyopia from concurrent ocular pathologies. Management options span from conventional optical corrections—including reading additions, progressive lenses, multifocal and monovision contact lenses—to surgical interventions such as refractive lens exchange, phakic intraocular lenses, and corneal procedures. Additionally, lifestyle modifications encompassing ergonomic adjustments, optimized lighting, adaptive devices, and digital accessibility features serve as important complementary measures. Special considerations for diverse populations, patient education, adherence strategies, and health system accessibility are discussed. Despite its growing public health significance amid ageing populations and escalating near-vision demands from digital technology, presbyopia remains under-recognized in research and clinical practice. This review underscores the necessity for improved awareness, standardized diagnostic protocols, equitable access to correction, and continued innovation to mitigate the global burden of presbyopia.

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