New Eye Drops May Offer Alternative to Reading Glasses for Aging eyes
A potential breakthrough in vision care offers hope for millions: specially formulated eye drops could become a viable alternative to reading glasses for individuals experiencing age-related blurry near vision, according to research unveiled on September 14, 2025. The drops aim to reverse the natural stiffening of the lens that occurs with age, a condition known as presbyopia, impacting an estimated 1.8 billion people worldwide.
Presbyopia typically begins around age 40 and progressively diminishes the ability to focus on close objects.While reading glasses, bifocals, and contact lenses are current solutions, they address the symptoms rather than the underlying cause. These new eye drops, still under development, seek to restore the lens’s flexibility, potentially offering a non-invasive and more convenient option. Further clinical trials are planned to assess long-term efficacy and safety, with the possibility of a market-ready product within the next few years.
The drops work by increasing the elasticity of the lens, allowing it to change shape more easily and focus on nearby objects. Researchers are optimistic that this approach could considerably improve the quality of life for aging individuals,reducing reliance on corrective eyewear and enhancing daily activities like reading and using smartphones.
Citation: Some patients could use special eye drops instead of reading glasses as they age, researcher says (2025, September 14) retrieved 14 September 2025 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-patients-special-eye-glasses-age.html
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