Cataracts typically develop as part of the natural ageing process, usually beginning after the age of 60. Whilst many of our patients want to know at what age cataracts typically develop, the truth is that it varies from person to person.
At What Ages Do Cataracts Start?
The most common type is an age-related cataract, where the lens gradually becomes cloudy over time. For most people, this process starts in their 60s or 70s, but it’s not uncommon for patients to notice cataracts forming in their 50s, especially if they have other risk factors such as diabetes, smoking, long-term steroid use, or previous eye injury. Which in turn can lead to cataracts affecting their vision.
Children and young adults can also develop cataracts, but these cases are rare and usually linked to congenital conditions or trauma.
What is the Average Age for Cataract Surgery?
Patients often assume there must be a fixed average age for cataract surgery. In reality, the decision to undergo cataract surgery has less to do with age and more to do with how severely cataracts are affecting the patient’s vision.
Many people will not need cataract surgery until later life, but if cataracts are beginning to interfere with reading, driving, or recognising faces, surgery may be recommended earlier. The decision for surgery is made on a case-by-case basis after a comprehensive eye examination by your consultant, considering factors such as the severity of cataracts, the impact on vision, overall eye health, and the individual’s ability to function and perform daily activities safely.
At Optegra, over 50,000 cataract surgeries are carried out each year, with a 99.6%, zero operative complications reported, helping to restore our patients’ independence and confidence no matter their age.
Cataracts and the Ageing Process
As cataracts develop slowly, they are often considered part of cataract aging – a natural change in the eye’s lens over time.
Many people with early-stage cataracts can manage their symptoms through changes in spectacle prescriptions or by using brighter lighting. While early stages may cause little disruption, the cloudiness usually worsens, leading to blurred vision, glare in bright light, or faded colours, which can significantly affect a person’s ability to perform daily activities. For many older patients, the impact on their independence and safety becomes the deciding factor in opting for surgery.
| Age Range | Likelihood of Cataracts | Common Cases | When Surgery is Recommended |
|---|---|---|---|
| Children & Young Adults | A rare likelihood | Congenital cataracts, eye trauma, and genetic conditions | If vision is severely impaired or daily function is affected |
| 40s–50s | Uncommon but possible | Diabetes, smoking, steroid use, and eye injuries | When cataracts cause difficulties with work, driving, or reading |
| 60+ (Most Common) | High likelihood (age-related cataract) | Natural ageing of the eye lens | Surgery is usually considered when vision loss reduces independence or safety |
| 80+ | Very common | Advanced age, combined eye health conditions | Surgery safe and highly effective, improving the quality of life even in later years |
Is There an Age Limit for Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery typically has no age limit because the decision to undergo surgery is primarily based on the impact of cataracts on an individual’s vision and daily life rather than on their age.
At Optegra, we regularly treat patients in their 80s and 90s with excellent outcomes. The key is a thorough consultation, where your consultant considers overall eye health, other eye conditions such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, and your ability to manage recovery. For younger patients, particularly those experiencing cataracts in their 50s, the same principle applies: if cataracts significantly reduce your quality of life, surgery can be the right option.
Important Factors Beyond Age
Instead of making your decision based on age, we recommend weighing up the following factors when considering cataract surgery.
Impact on Daily Life
Assess how cataracts affect your daily activities. If cataracts significantly impair your ability to read, drive, recognise faces, or perform work or hobbies, it may be time to consider surgery.
Visual Acuity
Evaluate changes in your visual acuity (ability to see fine detail). If visual acuity deteriorates to a point where it no longer meets your needs, surgery may be warranted.
Quality of Life
Consider the impact of the cataracts on your overall quality of life. If the visual limitations of cataracts have led to reduced independence, safety concerns, or a decreased enjoyment of life, surgery could offer you significant benefits.
Reassurance for Older and Vulnerable Patients
We understand that older patients may feel anxious about surgery, but cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest procedures available in the UK. With advanced techniques and Optegra’s expert surgeons, recovery is often smooth, and the benefits – clearer vision, greater independence, and a lower risk of falls – are life-changing.
As there is no concrete average age for cataract surgery, the right time depends on how cataracts are impacting your life. Surgery can safely restore vision at almost any age, and our experienced team at Optegra is here to guide you every step of the way. Learn more about cataract surgery or contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
By Author: Alex J Shortt
Mr Shortt is a leading ophthalmic surgeon and an expert in the fields of cornea, cataract and refractive surgery.
Medically Reviewed Date: 3rd September 2025
