Midlife Vision: Eye Changes In Your 40s and 50s

If you're hitting your 40s or 50s, you may have noticed a little more weight around your middle or a few gray hairs, but some changes to your vision may surprise you. For example, you may now reach for reading glasses or find yourself squinting when looking at materials up close. 

If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. During this stage of life, hormones may shift, metabolism may change, and the risk of certain diseases can increase. Physical changes may also affect the eyes and vision. 
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Learning about possible midlife vision changes can help you take steps to decrease your risk of vision problems now and in the decades to come.

Continue reading to learn about common eye changes in your 40s and 50s and what you can do to protect your vision. 
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What causes midlife vision changes?

Most people define midlife as the period from about age 40 to 65. Midlife vision changes can occur for a variety of reasons, including the following:

• Tear production usually decreases in midlife. 
• The lens may start to deteriorate.
• The gel-like fluid in the eye, called the vitreous, starts to shrink, which can increase the number of floaters. 

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The lens in the eye becomes less flexible, leading to problems with near vision.

Common vision changes you may notice in your 40s and 50s

Increased glare sensitivity: The pupils tend to become smaller as you age, which means less light enters the eyes. The result is increased glare sensitivity from oncoming headlights, and nighttime driving becomes more challenging. 

Trouble seeing small print: When you are younger, the lens in your eye is flexible, which allows you to change focus between objects that are far and close. As you age, the lens gradually becomes stiffer, making it difficult to focus on close objects, such as texts, newspapers, and menus.

Dry eye symptoms develop: According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, symptoms of dry eyes may become more common as you age. Dry eyes are more likely as you age, partially due to hormonal changes leading to decreased tear production. 
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Setting the stage for healthy vision as you age

The steps you take in midlife can set the stage for a healthy vision for the rest of your life. Even if you did not prioritize your eye health in your younger years, now is a great time to become proactive in maintaining healthy eyes. 

Consider these steps to protect your vision:

Monitor your numbers: High blood pressure and high cholesterol can creep up on you in midlife and lead to complications, such as diabetes, that can impact vision. Regularly monitor your blood pressure and have cholesterol tests to make sure your numbers are at healthy levels. 

Make regular exercise a habit: Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, may reduce your risk of diabetes, and promote overall eye health. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, exercise promotes healthy blood vessels in the eye, and some research indicates it may protect the eyes. 

Know your family history: Having a family history of certain types of eye diseases may also increase your risk. Knowing your family history alerts your eye doctor to information that may require more frequent eye exams. 
Remember, midlife is not all doom and gloom. Many people have increased confidence, perspective, and gratitude. Being proactive and taking charge of your health, including your vision and eye health, is one step toward lifelong wellness. 

If you have any questions about maintaining eye health as you age, we are happy to help. Also, if you would like to schedule an eye appointment with one of our eye doctors, please call our office at 508-746-8600.
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