Presbyopia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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presbyopia
[ˌprɛzbɪˈoʊpiə ]
Definition
vision condition
Presbyopia is a common vision condition that typically occurs as people age, usually starting in their early to mid-40s. It involves a gradual loss of the eyes' ability to focus on nearby objects, which can make tasks like reading more difficult. This condition is caused by the hardening of the lens in the eye and weakening of the ciliary muscles. Eye care professionals often recommend reading glasses or bifocals to compensate for the loss in near vision.
Synonyms
farsightedness, long-sightedness.
Examples of usage
- Many people start using reading glasses due to presbyopia.
- She noticed presbyopia when she struggled to read small print.
- Presbyopia can affect anyone, but it typically begins after age 40.
Translations
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Origin of 'presbyopia'
The term 'presbyopia' comes from the Greek words 'presbys', meaning 'old man' or 'elder', and 'opia', meaning 'sight' or 'vision'. The history of presbyopia dates back to ancient times when individuals began noticing changes in their ability to see objects clearly up close as they aged. As vision research progressed, it was established that presbyopia is a natural part of the aging process affecting the lens of the eye. During the 17th century, the invention of reading glasses marked a significant advancement in addressing this condition. Over the decades, further developments, such as bifocals and progressive lenses, have provided solutions for those affected by presbyopia. Today, presbyopia is widely acknowledged as a universal age-related visual impairment, with educational resources and corrective options available to help manage its symptoms.