Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, typically stabilizes between the ages of 15 and 20, with an average stabilization age of 16 years.
Myopia frequently begins in childhood, often appearing between the ages of 8 and 10. The primary reason for this progression is the eyeball growing too long, which causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in distant objects appearing blurry.
While the 15-20 age range is common for stabilization, the exact age can vary. Several factors influence when myopia stops progressing:
- Severity: The degree of myopia can play a role.
- Age of Onset: When myopia first develops can affect how long it continues to worsen.
- Heredity: Genetics can influence both the development and progression of myopia.
- Environment: Lifestyle factors and activities, such as extensive close-up work, may also have an impact.
Here's a summary of the typical timeline:
| Event | Typical Age Range | Average Age |
|---|---|---|
| Myopia Onset | 8 to 10 years | — |
| Myopia Stabilization | 15 to 20 years | 16 years |
It's important to note that while the progression of myopia usually stops in late adolescence or early adulthood, this does not mean vision improves on its own. The existing level of nearsightedness remains unless corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery later in life.
