Just like our skin, joints and muscles, our eyes change as we get older. These changes are a normal part of ageing — but the good news is, many age-related eye conditions are manageable, especially when we catch them early.

Knowing what to expect can help you take better care of your eye health through every stage of life.

Regular eye tests detect early vision changes

In Your 40s: Reading Gets Harder

Most people notice changes in their near vision around their mid-40s. You might find it harder to focus on small print or close-up objects — this is likely presbyopia, a natural part of ageing where the lens of your eye becomes less flexible.

Common signs of presbyopia include:

• Holding reading material at arm’s length

• Eye strain or headaches after reading

• Needing more light to see clearly

What you can do:

Reading glasses, multifocal lenses or contact lenses can help. A regular eye test will help us find the right solution for you.

In Your 50s: Dry Eyes and Light Sensitivity

In your 50s, your eyes might feel more dry, tired or irritated. Tear production often slows down with age, especially in dry or heated environments, which can lead to dry eye symptoms.

You may also notice:

• Increased sensitivity to light

• Trouble adjusting between bright and dark

• More visible floaters

What you can do:
We can recommend quality lubricating eye drops or assess whether another issue is contributing to the dryness. Don’t ignore ongoing discomfort — we’re here to help.

In Your 60s and Beyond: Keep an Eye on Eye Disease

As you head into your 60s and older, your risk of certain eye conditions increases. These include:

• Cataracts – clouding of the lens that blurs vision

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – affects central vision

• Glaucoma – damages the optic nerve, often without early symptoms

• Diabetic retinopathy – affects people with diabetes

What you can do:

Regular comprehensive eye tests are vital. Many of these conditions develop slowly, so early detection gives you the best chance of maintaining your vision and independence.

Your Eyes Reflect Your Overall Health

Did you know your eyes can reveal signs of general health conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes? That’s one of the reasons we always take a holistic approach during your eye exam.

The Bottom Line

Getting older doesn’t mean losing your sight. With proactive care, healthy habits and the right vision support, you can keep your eyes in top shape at any age.

Noticed any changes in your sight? Or has it been a while since your last check-up? Book an eye test with the team at L&F Eyecare – we’re here to help you see clearly, comfortably and confidently.