What is the term for the loss of clarity in the lens of the eye due to aging?

The term for the loss of clarity in the lens of the eye due to aging is cataract. As individuals age, the proteins in the lens can clump together, which leads to opacification and a reduction in the lens's transparency. This clouding can significantly affect vision, resulting in blurred or hazy sight and difficulties in seeing at night. Treatment often involves surgical intervention to replace the cloudy lens with a clear artificial lens.

Floaters refer to small spots or shapes that float in a person's field of vision, often caused by changes in the vitreous gel of the eye. Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, commonly associated with increased intraocular pressure, and it may lead to vision loss if not treated. Macular degeneration refers to the deterioration of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, typically affecting the elderly but distinctly different from cataracts. Understanding the specific terms and their implications for eye health is crucial for anyone studying optometry.