ABSTRACT
Presbyopia, the age-related loss of near-focusing ability, is inevitable but often poorly understood
by those approaching or experiencing its onset. This study investigated the attitudes and beliefs of
pre-presbyopic and presbyopic individuals regarding presbyopia and its available correction
methods. It also explored the factors influencing their preferences for different refractive
correction options. An exploratory cross-sectional study was conducted at various locations in the
University of Benin, using a convenience sampling technique. Fifty participants aged 35–53 years
were recruited and divided into focus groups. Attitudes and beliefs about presbyopia, its
significance, and opinions about current refractive correction including multifocal contact lenses
were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically for overarching themes and patterns. 21
participants (42%) were already wearing a near visual correction while 29 (58%) were not. Six
key primary themes with clear inter-participant similarities were identified as ‘low awareness of
the word presbyopia’ (60%), ‘acceptance’ (52%), ‘lack of/irregular eye examinations’ (74%), ‘No
knowledge of non-spectacle-based correction’ (68%), ‘reluctant/negative attitude towards
(multifocal) contact lenses’ (78%), and ‘comfort and convenience’ of a presbyopic correction more
important than cost (76%). The need for near correction was accepted as a sign of age, most
participants seldom went for eye examinations, and most had limited knowledge beyond
spectacles. Comfort and convenience were seen as more important than cost. Patient education
about presbyopia is limited. Multifocal contact lenses were not well-liked among participants.
Keywords: Presbyopia, patient beliefs, refractive correction, progressive lenses, contact lenses,
presbyopic awareness.
