The prevalence of eye disease increases with age, and correspondingly, vision also tends to get worse with age. According to data from populations in the United States, it’s estimated that the prevalence of age-related macular degeneration is 3% in people ages 40–64 and 34% in people older than 80. The prevalence of glaucoma is 1% in people ages 40–64 and 9% in people older than 80. The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy is 9% in people ages 40–64 and 16% in people older than 80. The prevalence of cataract surgery is 3% in people ages 40–64 and 63% in people older than 80.[1] Additionally, it’s estimated that the prevalence of dry eye disease in the United States is 3% in people ages 18–34 and 19% in people older than 75.[2]
Can eyes and vision change over time?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
As people age, the prevalence of various eye diseases increases, which leads to a decline in vision. For instance, age-related macular degeneration affects 3% of people aged 40 to 64 and 34% of those over 80; glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy also show higher prevalence rates in older populations.