As we age, the world around us may not look quite the same—literally. New research suggests that our ability to perceive colours shifts over time, altering how we see everything from sunsets to traffic lights.
How Ageing Affects Colour Vision
Scientists have long known that ageing impacts vision, but recent studies highlight specific changes in colour perception. The lens of the eye yellows with age, subtly filtering out blues and violets while making warm tones like reds and yellows appear less vibrant.
The Science Behind the Shift
This phenomenon occurs due to several factors:
- Lens yellowing: Over time, proteins in the eye's lens break down, creating a yellowish tint that acts like a natural filter.
- Pupil shrinkage: Smaller pupils let in less light, reducing colour intensity.
- Retinal changes: The retina's light-sensitive cells become less efficient at processing certain wavelengths.
Practical Implications
These changes can affect daily life in surprising ways:
- Difficulty distinguishing between similar shades (like navy blue and black)
- Reduced ability to spot hazards in low-light conditions
- Altered appreciation for art and nature's colours
Can We Slow the Change?
While some degree of colour perception loss is inevitable, experts recommend:
- Regular eye exams to monitor changes
- UV-protective sunglasses to slow lens yellowing
- A diet rich in antioxidants to support eye health
The next time your grandmother insists her favourite blue sweater has faded, she might be seeing a genuine difference—one that science is only beginning to fully understand.
