Presbyopia: All You Need to Know
Struggling to read the fine print? You’re not alone.
Have you found yourself holding your phone or a restaurant menu at arm’s length just to read it clearly? Or maybe you’ve noticed your eyes feeling strained after reading or scrolling for too long? If you’re over 40, there’s a good chance you’re experiencing presbyopia—a completely natural part of ageing.
At Alter Eyewear in Bondi Junction, we help locals manage presbyopia with expert care, clear advice, and personalised vision solutions. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Presbyopia?
Presbyopia is a gradual loss of your eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects, and it typically becomes noticeable in your early to mid-40s. It happens to everyone eventually and is not considered a disease—just a normal change in the eye’s internal lens.
Unlike other vision issues such as short-sightedness (myopia) or long-sightedness (hyperopia), presbyopia is age-related and affects near vision only.
Signs & Symptoms of Presbyopia
If you’re experiencing any of the following, presbyopia could be the cause:
Difficulty reading small print (especially in dim lighting)
Holding reading materials further away to focus clearly
Eye strain, fatigue, or headaches after close-up tasks
Blurred vision when switching between near and far distances
These symptoms often start gradually and become more noticeable over time.
What Causes Presbyopia?
As we age, the lens inside our eye naturally becomes less flexible. In your younger years, the lens easily changes shape to focus on objects at varying distances. But from around age 40 onwards, it begins to stiffen, making it harder to focus on things up close.
Presbyopia is completely normal—and it’s one of the main reasons why reading glasses become more common in middle age.
Presbyopia vs Other Vision Problems
It’s important to know that presbyopia can occur even if you’ve never needed glasses before. It’s also possible to have presbyopia alongside other vision issues like:
Myopia (short-sightedness) – clear up close, blurry in the distance
Hyperopia (long-sightedness) – clear far away, blurry up close
Astigmatism – blurry or distorted vision at all distances
An eye test can determine exactly what’s going on and whether you’re dealing with just presbyopia or a combination of conditions.
How Is Presbyopia Diagnosed?
Diagnosing presbyopia is simple and painless. At Alter Eyewear, we’ll conduct a comprehensive eye exam to:
Assess your near and distance vision
Check your eye health and lens flexibility
Determine your prescription needs
Recommend the best visual correction for your lifestyle
Our optometrists take the time to explain everything clearly—no confusing jargon or rushed appointments.
Treatment Options for Presbyopia
The good news? There are plenty of ways to manage presbyopia and restore your near vision. At Alter Eyewear, we offer:
Reading Glasses
Perfect for occasional use, especially if you only need help with near tasks like reading or using a phone.
Multifocal Glasses
Offer a smooth transition between near, intermediate, and distance vision—all in one pair. Stylish and practical for everyday wear.
Multifocal or Monovision Contact Lenses
Ideal for those who prefer not to wear glasses. We’ll help you choose the right option based on your lifestyle.
Occupational Lenses
Designed for specific work setups—great for people working at a desk or computer for long hours.
Emerging Treatments
There are also new developments such as presbyopia eye drops and surgical options. These aren’t for everyone, but we can discuss them if relevant.
Why Choose Alter Eyewear for Presbyopia Care?
Located in the heart of Bondi Junction, Alter Eyewear is known for combining optical expertise with personalised service. Here’s why locals trust us:
Experienced, approachable optometrists
Custom eyewear fittings with stylish frames and lenses
Honest, expert advice (no upselling—just what’s right for you)
State-of-the-art diagnostic equipment
Warm, welcoming space with a community feel
Whether you need a first pair of readers or want to explore contact lenses or multifocals, we’ve got you covered.
When Should You See an Optometrist?
If you’re over 40 and starting to notice changes in your near vision, now’s the perfect time to get your eyes checked. The earlier we detect presbyopia, the easier it is to manage it comfortably and effectively.
We recommend an eye test every two years, or more often if you're experiencing symptoms.
Book Your Eye Test at Alter Eyewear Today
Ready to take the strain off your eyes? Let’s get your vision back on track.
Visit us in Bondi Junction
Call 8707 6799
Book an appointment online
Serving Bondi Junction & Beyond
We proudly support the eye health of locals in Bondi Junction, Bronte, Waverley, Tamarama, and surrounding suburbs.
| Feature | Presbyopia | Hyperopia (Farsightedness) |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Age-related stiffening of the lens | Eye shape causing improper light focus |
| When it appears | Typically over age 40 | Can be present from birth |
| Type of vision loss | Difficulty with near vision | Blurry near vision, sometimes distance too |
| Treatment options | Reading glasses, multifocals, contact lenses | Prescription glasses or contact lenses |
| Progression | Gradual, worsens with age | May stay stable or change over time |
Can You Have Both Presbyopia and Hyperopia?
Yes, and many people do.
If you’ve had hyperopia most of your life, presbyopia can layer on top of it as you get older—making near tasks even more challenging. In these cases, we may recommend multifocal lenses or custom vision solutions that correct both issues at once.
How Is Each Diagnosed?
Only a comprehensive eye exam can determine whether you have presbyopia, hyperopia, or both. At Alter Eyewear, your optometrist will:
Assess your near and distance vision
Check how your eyes focus and work together
Test for signs of eye strain or visual fatigue
Create a tailored prescription if needed
We explain everything in clear, simple terms—so you leave understanding your eyes, not confused by jargon.
Treatment Options Available at Alter Eyewear
We offer a range of solutions to suit your eyes, lifestyle, and personal style:
👓 Reading Glasses
Perfect for presbyopia if you only need help up close.
👓 Prescription Glasses for Hyperopia
Designed for both near and distance clarity, depending on your needs.
👓 Multifocal Lenses
A popular choice for patients dealing with both presbyopia and hyperopia—clear vision at all distances in one stylish pair.
👁 Contact Lenses
Available in monovision or multifocal options for presbyopia and hyperopia.
💻 Computer/Occupational Lenses
For those who spend long hours working on screens or doing close-up tasks.
Why Choose Alter Eyewear in Bondi Junction?
At Alter Eyewear, we combine optical expertise with a modern, personalised approach. Locals in Bondi Junction and surrounding suburbs trust us for:
Thorough, unrushed eye exams
Honest advice with zero pressure to purchase
A curated range of designer frames and high-quality lenses
Friendly, experienced optometrists who take the time to explain your vision
We’re here to make looking after your eyes simple, stylish, and stress-free.
✅ Book an Eye Test Today
Still unsure whether it’s presbyopia, hyperopia—or something else entirely? Don’t guess. Book an eye test with Alter Eyewear and let’s find the right solution for your eyes.
Find us in Bondi Junction, NSW
Call us on 8207 6799
Book an appointment online
Serving Bondi Junction & Surrounding Areas
Proudly supporting the vision of our community in Bronte, Waverley, Tamarama, Randwick, and the Eastern Suburbs.