Definition of Farsightedness

Farsightedness: An error of refraction in the human eye that causes light rays to focus behind the retina instead of on it. A person who is farsighted has normal vision at a distance but has trouble focusing on nearby objects. Farsightedness can be corrected with refractive lenses'either glasses or contact lenses'and in some cases by surgery. Also known as hyperopia.

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=10569
Last Editorial Review: 3/19/2012