Farsightedness (Hyperopia) in The Villages, FL

What is hyperopia?

Hyperopia is a refractive error. The eye is a little short, or the front surface is too flat, so light focuses behind the retina. Near objects can look blurry. Young eyes can often work harder to compensate, so it may go unnoticed.

People with a small amount of hyperopia may see well for years. As we age, the eye's focusing power fades. Then close work can become harder and the need for help can grow. That is a normal part of aging for many people.

Common symptoms

You may notice blurry close-up sight, such as when you read or use a phone. Eye strain, tired eyes or headaches can follow close work. Squinting and trouble with fine print are also common. Another change, called presbyopia, also affects near vision as we age, so a full exam tells them apart.

Call right away if this happens. Sudden flashes of light, a shower of new floaters, a curtain over your vision, sudden vision loss or a chemical in the eye: call (352) 399-5412 right away, or go to the nearest emergency room.

Who is at risk?

A family history raises the chance. Hyperopia can occur at any age. Needs may change as the eye ages.

What a farsightedness visit looks like

When you come in for Farsightedness (Hyperopia) in The Villages, first we talk about your close-up tasks. For example, tell us about books, phones, crosswords or sewing. Then we check your sight and do a refraction to find the lens power that helps. Dr. Russell also looks at your eye health.

Bring the glasses you use now, because they show us what you already wear.

Questions to ask your eye doctor

For example, ask whether your trouble comes from hyperopia, presbyopia or both. You can also ask which lens suits your day, such as single vision, bifocals or progressives. In addition, ask whether one pair can cover reading and driving, or whether two pairs would feel better.

Everyday tips

Because tired eyes make reading harder, give yourself breaks. Also keep good light by your reading chair. However, do not rely on headaches to tell you when to get an exam. Come in on a regular schedule, so your prescription stays current.

Choosing lenses for close work

Your hobbies shape your lens choice. For example, a golfer may want a different pair than a reader. Our opticians can show you single vision, bifocal, trifocal and progressive lenses, so you can compare them side by side. Then you can see which one feels natural. If you want sunglasses that match your prescription, ask about those too. Many people with Farsightedness (Hyperopia) in The Villages choose more than one pair.

Treatment options

Glasses or contact lenses are common. Some people choose refractive surgery, which an eye surgeon performs. Reading glasses, bifocals or progressives may help with near tasks.

Help With Farsightedness (Hyperopia) in The Villages

Our care for Farsightedness (Hyperopia) in The Villages fits how you live. Dr. Russell finds the right prescription for reading, golf, driving or screens. Our opticians help you compare single vision, bifocal, progressive and Transitions® lenses. You get a copy of your prescription and may buy glasses or contacts wherever you choose. If you ask about surgery, we refer you to a trusted eye surgeon and co-manage your care.

Call (352) 399-5412 or request an appointment.

Our office is at 2478 Burnsed Blvd. We are open Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We welcome patients from The Villages, Lady Lake, Oxford, Summerfield, Wildwood and nearby.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Please talk with your eye doctor about your own eyes.

Common questions

Is farsightedness the same as needing reading glasses?

Not always. Reading glasses address age-related near-vision change, while hyperopia is about eye shape. An exam can tell which you have.

Can hyperopia cause headaches?

Yes. Straining to focus can bring on headaches and tired eyes.

Can I try different lens styles?

Yes. Our opticians can walk you through single vision, bifocal and progressive lenses, so you can pick what fits your day.