The aging eye and contact lenses — a review of ocular characteristics

Most contact lens practitioners are dealing with an increasing number of otherwise healthy 'older' (presbyopic) patients. Examination of the literature indicates a persistent theme of age-related change, which generally becomes significant after the fourth decade. This review documents changes that are reported in the ocular adnexa, tear film, cornea, pupil, intraocular pressure, refractive state, spectral transmission, and chromatic aberration. The effects of these various changes on the fitting and wear of contact lenses by older patients are discussed.

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