The gradual loss of your eyes’ ability to focus actively on nearby objects is a not-so-subtle reminder that you have reached middle age. A natural, often annoying part of aging, presbyopia usually becomes noticeable in your early to mid-40s and continues to worsen until around age 60.

You may become aware of presbyopia when you start holding books and newspapers at arm’s length to be able to read them. If you’re nearsighted, you might temporarily manage by reading without your glasses.