Which of the following statements about presbyopia is true?

Presbyopia is an age-related condition characterized by a progressive decline in the eye's ability to focus on close objects. This occurs because the lens of the eye becomes less flexible and loses its ability to change shape, which is necessary for focusing on near tasks such as reading. As individuals age, typically starting in their 40s, they may find it increasingly difficult to see items up close, necessitating the use of reading glasses or other corrective lenses.

This condition is a natural part of the aging process rather than a hereditary condition, and it predominantly affects middle-aged and older individuals, not younger ones. Additionally, presbyopia is not caused by retinal damage; rather, it is primarily related to changes in the lens and the muscles surrounding it. Understanding these factors helps clarify the nature of presbyopia and its impact on vision as one ages.