Heavy Screen Use After 40? Experts Dispel Two Myths About Presbyopia

If a phone or menu keeps moving farther away, presbyopia may be the reason. In Taiwan, more than 13 million people are over 40, and more than 6 million are estimated to have problems with the condition.

Kang Ning University optometry department director Lin Wei-jen said presbyopia now affects more than reading newspapers or menus. People constantly shift their focus between phones, computers, tablets, navigation systems, presentation screens and outdoor activities. Without suitable correction, they may experience blurred near vision, eye strain, headaches and dry eyes. Poor focusing can also increase risks while driving, walking or moving around at night.

The article addresses two common assumptions. The first is that presbyopia is a normal part of aging and should simply be tolerated. Lin said “normal” does not mean people must endure the symptoms. Anyone who needs to hold a phone farther away, tires easily while reading or struggles to focus when switching between distances should receive a professional assessment.

The second assumption is that myopia and presbyopia cancel each other out. Lin said the two conditions can offset one another in some situations, but they remain different refractive conditions. Correction must consider myopia, presbyopia, astigmatism, differences between the two eyes and everyday needs such as computer use, phone use and driving.

Options include single-vision glasses, progressive lenses and multifocal contact lenses. Lin said contact lenses may suit some older adults who work, drive or exercise, but all options require an assessment by an ophthalmologist or qualified optometrist. Contact-lens users should follow hygiene rules, stay within recommended wearing times, remove lenses before sleep and seek medical care if redness, pain or other discomfort develops.

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Normal does not mean people can only endure it.