The elderly experience dryness and an irritating sensation in the eye. In old age there is a reduction in the secretion of tears which play an important role in the protection of the eyes. Each time we blink, the eyelids wash the eye with the tears secreated.
Tears act as a lubricant and keep the eyes clean and moist.
To prevent drying, one should frequently wash the eyes with clean cold water. Presbyopia is a condition where reading and other work needing close attention of the eye becomes difficult. It normally commences from the age of 40 onwards. Periodical eye check-up and use of clinically prescribed spectacles can improve vision. In the normal eye the lens is clear and allows the normal passage of light.