Eye dryness is a medical condition in which the eye surface lacks adequate moisture and lubrication.

As individuals grow older, this condition becomes significantly more common and more persistent.

<h3>What Is Age-Related Eye Dryness?</h3>

Eye dryness, often called dry eye disease, is defined by an imbalance in the protective tear film that normally coats the eye’s surface. This tear film has multiple layers that work together to keep the eye moist, smooth, and comfortable. When tear quantity drops or tear quality deteriorates, the eye surface can become irritated, uncomfortable, or sensitive. The condition can range from mild irritations to chronic discomfort that complicates everyday activities such as reading, using digital devices, or driving.

<h3>Physiological Changes That Impair Tear Production</h3>

One primary reason eye dryness increases with age is the natural reduction in tear production. Tear glands, called lacrimal glands, gradually produce fewer tears as part of the aging process. Reduced tear output means the surface of the eye is less protected and hydrated, making dryness more likely.

Another age-related change involves the meibomian glands in the eyelids. These glands secrete oils that slow down evaporation of tears. With age, these glands can become blocked or less functional, resulting in quicker tear evaporation and less effective lubrication over the eye surface.

<h3>Role of Hormonal and Systemic Factors</h3>

Hormonal changes also contribute significantly to age-related eye dryness. After menopause, many women experience shifts in hormone levels that can affect the tear film’s stability and composition. This hormonal influence is one reason why older women frequently report more dry eye symptoms than men of similar ages.

In addition to natural hormonal changes, many older adults take medications for chronic conditions more common in later life. Certain medications such as antihistamines, blood pressure treatments, or other systemic prescriptions can have side effects that reduce tear production or alter tear quality, further increasing the risk of dryness.

<h3>Structural and Sensory Changes of the Eye</h3>

Older eyes often undergo structural changes that affect tear film stability. For example, lid laxity and other irregularities in eyelid position can interfere with the even spread of tears across the eye surface. Changes in corneal sensitivity and reflex blinking can also weaken the normal reflexes that help maintain tear distribution, making dryness more noticeable.

As sensitivity diminishes, the eye may not trigger the reflexive blinking needed to refresh the tear film frequently. This can leave areas of the eye surface exposed and dehydrated. Consequently, symptoms like irritation, a gritty feeling, or discomfort are more common.

<h3>Environmental and Lifestyle Contributions</h3>

Environmental factors remain relevant regardless of age, but older adults often spend more time indoors in climate-controlled environments with lower humidity. Heating and air conditioning, as well as exposure to dry or windy conditions, can accelerate tear evaporation and worsen dryness.

Dr. Russel Lazarus, an experienced optometrist, explains that as we get older, normal aging processes can impair both how much tears we produce and the quality of those tears, which contributes to uncomfortable symptoms of dry eye.

<h3>Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Care</h3>

Symptoms of age-related eye dryness can vary but often include sensations of burning, irritation, fluctuating clarity of vision, and a persistent feeling of discomfort. These symptoms may come and go, but they tend to become more frequent without proper management.

Because dry eye can affect daily functioning and quality of life, older adults are encouraged to seek regular eye examinations. Early diagnosis can help tailor effective treatments like specialized eye drops, environmental adjustments, or therapeutic procedures—that address both tear production and tear stability.

Eye dryness increases with age due to a spectrum of biological changes and external influences. Early detection and individualized care are important steps to manage symptoms effectively. With appropriate awareness and interventions, it is possible to address age-associated eye dryness and maintain better ocular comfort throughout later decades.