Adult myopia eye tests in Reservoir
Short-sightedness in adults: clearer distance vision, practical advice.
If distant faces, street signs or the television are becoming harder to see, short-sightedness may be part of the explanation. An eye examination can check your prescription and the health of your eyes.
At Reservoir Spectacles, we can assess your vision, explain what has changed and discuss correction suited to your everyday needs.
Understanding your vision
What is myopia?
Myopia is another name for short-sightedness. Light from distant objects focuses in front of the retina instead of on it, making the distance look blurred. Near objects may be clearer. The shape or length of the eye affects how it focuses light.
It often begins in childhood, but it can also develop in early adulthood. New blur should still be checked: an eye-health problem or another focusing change can produce similar symptoms.
This guide is for adults. For a child whose prescription is changing, see our childhood myopia management guide.
Changes worth mentioning at your appointment.
Distance is less clear
You may be squinting at signs, struggling to recognise people across a room or moving closer to the television.
Old glasses feel less useful
Tell us which tasks have become difficult and whether the change is gradual, sudden or different between your eyes.
Evenings are harder
Distance blur can be more noticeable at night. Do not drive if you cannot see clearly and safely; arrange an assessment.
Bring your current glasses, any previous prescription records and details of contact lenses you use. A few examples from work, travel or hobbies help make the discussion practical.
What will the eye test check?
We measure the vision in each eye and compare lenses to find the prescription that gives the clearest result. We also assess eye health rather than assuming that every change needs stronger glasses.
Your history and examination findings guide any additional checks and your review timing. If dilation is recommended, we will explain why and how to prepare. Read about our comprehensive eye tests and dilated eye examinations.
Correction choices
A prescription that fits your day.
Glasses
Prescription lenses correct distance focus. Whether you wear them all day or for particular tasks depends on your vision and the advice from your optometrist.
Contact lenses
Contact lenses can suit some adults, with a fitting assessment, handling instruction and ongoing care. Discuss the activities you want to use them for.
Considering surgery?
Laser vision correction is an option for some adults. Suitability needs specialist assessment. An eye test is a useful starting point for discussing your questions and next steps.
Correcting blur does not remove the need for eye-health reviews. Higher myopia is associated with increased risks of retinal problems, glaucoma and cataracts. Your review plan should reflect your prescription, history and examination findings.
Common questions about adult myopia.
Can short-sightedness change after childhood?
Yes. Some people develop myopia in early adulthood. If your distance vision changes, bring your previous prescription to an eye test so the change can be assessed.
Should I deliberately wear weaker glasses?
Wearing weaker glasses is not a reliable way to stop myopia progressing. Use the prescription and wearing advice recommended for you, especially for tasks needing clear distance vision.
Why is reading harder as I get older?
Age-related changes in near focusing, called presbyopia, can affect people who are already short-sighted. Your distance and reading needs should be assessed together. See our presbyopia and reading glasses guide.
When to act quickly
Sudden symptoms need urgent attention.
New flashes, a sudden increase in floaters, a curtain or shadow, or sudden loss of vision should not be treated as an ordinary prescription change. Seek urgent assessment immediately. A curtain, shadow or sudden vision loss may indicate retinal detachment and needs emergency care.
Call (03) 9460 8017 for advice. If we are closed or prompt assessment is unavailable, seek an available eye-care professional or emergency department. Do not wait for an online booking. Call 000 if emergency assistance is needed. Our flashes and floaters guide explains more.
Book an adult eye test in Reservoir.
Tell us what you would like to see more clearly, and bring the glasses you currently use. Reservoir Spectacles is at 2C Edwardes Street, Reservoir VIC 3073.
Further reading: Healthdirect’s short-sightedness guide, Centre for Eye Research Australia on refractive error, Optometry Australia’s myopia factsheet (PDF) and Healthdirect’s retinal detachment advice.