Which term describes the age-related loss of near focusing ability?

• A. Presbyopia
• B. Aphakia
• C. Amblyopia
• D. Hyperopia

Answer: (A)

Near focusing ability declines as part of the aging process because the crystalline lens becomes less elastic and the eye’s focusing system loses power. This gradual loss of accommodation typically starts in the 40s, making it harder to read small print up close unless you hold things farther away or use reading glasses. This age-related change is called presbyopia. It’s distinct from other conditions: aphakia is the absence of the lens (often after surgery), amblyopia is decreased vision due to reduced visual development or brain-eye pathway suppression, and hyperopia is farsightedness caused by the eye’s shape or refractive error rather than a progressive age-related loss of accommodation.