Cataracts are one of the most common age-related eye conditions in the world—but many people are surprised to learn they can start developing earlier than expected. If you’re wondering “At what age do cataracts usually develop?” or whether your current vision changes are due to cataracts, this guide breaks it all down.

What Are Cataracts?

A cataract is a hardening and clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which lies behind the iris and pupil. The lens is normally clear and helps focus light onto the retina. Over time, proteins in the lens can clump together, forming cloudy areas that impair vision.

Cataracts typically develop gradually and affect your ability to see clearly.  They can also contribute to glare and haloing around lights and difficulty seeing in low-light conditions.

What Age Do Cataracts Start to Cause Symptoms?

The most common age for cataract symptoms to start is after age 60, but they can begin much earlier.

Here’s a general timeline:

  • Age 40–50: Early signs of lens changes may begin.  Symptoms may include changes in the glasses prescription, need for reading glasses, or decreased vision in dim light settings.
  • Age 50–60: Vision changes become more noticeable.  General worsening in the overall quality of vision, worsening glare around lights, and more noticeable blurring that persists even with updated glasses. 
  • Age 60+: Cataract symptoms are common in this group and often require monitoring or surgical treatment.  Symptoms worsen and include blurring and clouding of vision, glare around lights, difficulty in dim lighting, and trouble driving at night.
  • Under 40: Rare, but possible—especially due to tobacco use, family history / genetics, trauma, medical conditions (diabetes), or certain medications (steroids / prednisone).

Early-Onset Cataracts: Why They Happen

Though cataracts are considered an age-related condition, they can occur earlier due to a variety of risk factors:

Common Causes of Early Cataracts:

  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Long-term use of steroids / prednisone
  • Eye injuries or eye surgery
  • Family history / genetic predisposition
  • Radiation exposure
  • Frequent UV light exposure

If you’re under 60 and noticing vision changes, don’t rule out cataracts—especially if any of these factors apply to you.

Common Symptoms of Cataracts by Age

Regardless of age, the symptoms of cataracts tend to follow a similar pattern:

  • Blurred or cloudy vision
  • Glare or halos around lights (especially at night)
  • Faded or yellowed colors
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Frequent prescription changes
  • Difficulty seeing at night

These symptoms may start subtly and worsen over time, which is why regular eye exams are critical—particularly after age 40.

When Should You Get Tested for Cataracts?

Even if you have no eye conditions, routine eye exams can detect cataracts in their early stages, often before you notice significant symptoms.

Eye exam schedule by age:

  • Under 40: Every 2–4 years
  • Age 40–54: Every 1–3 years
  • Age 55 and older: Annually

If you’re experiencing any changes in your vision—regardless of age—it’s best to schedule a comprehensive dilated eye exam as soon as possible.

Cataract Treatment: When Is It Time?

There’s no medication or diet that reverses cataracts. The only effective treatment is cataract surgery, which involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

Cataract surgery may be recommended when:

  • Vision loss interferes with daily activities like reading, driving, occupational activities, and hobbies.
  • You’re unable to pass a vision test for work or a driver’s license.
  • The cataract progresses to the point of causing serious vision issues.

How to Lower Your Risk of Early Cataracts

While aging is unavoidable, certain lifestyle changes can help delay cataract development:

  • Quit smoking
  • Wear UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors
  • Eat a diet rich in antioxidants (leafy greens, citrus fruits, carrots)
  • Manage chronic health conditions like diabetes
  • Avoid long-term use of steroid medications unless medically necessary
  • Get regular eye exams to catch problems early

Final Thoughts: Cataracts Can Begin Earlier Than You Think

So, what age do you get cataracts? While most people don’t require treatment until after 60, cataracts can begin to form as early as your 40s or even earlier in some cases. Staying proactive with eye care, especially as you age, is key to catching and managing cataracts before they significantly affect your quality of life.

If you’re noticing changes in your vision—or it’s been a while since your last eye exam—schedule an appointment with an eye care specialist to evaluate your lenses, assess your risks, and plan ahead for clear vision.