The Hand Pressure Point That May Support Eye Comfort: Understanding Lao Lao Point and Healthy Aging

As we age, many people notice a gradual change in their vision: reading books, newspapers, or phone screens becomes more difficult, especially at close distances.

This common age-related change is known as presbyopia, a natural part of aging that affects the eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects. It usually occurs because the eye’s lens becomes less flexible over time.

For many older adults, wearing reading glasses becomes part of daily life. However, beyond proper vision correction, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and reducing eye strain are also important parts of supporting long-term eye comfort.

Traditional wellness practices from East Asia have long explored gentle self-care techniques, including acupressure. One commonly discussed point is Yang Lao Point (养老穴), a traditional acupressure location associated with supporting overall eye comfort and relaxation.

While acupressure should not replace professional eye care or corrective lenses, some people include it as a simple daily wellness routine.

Finding the Yang Lao Point (养老穴)

The Yang Lao point is located around the wrist area.

To find it:

1. Bend your arm and place your palm facing downward.
2. Look at the outer side of your wrist, near the little finger side.
3. Locate the raised bone area on the outside of the wrist.
4. Touch the highest point of this bone, then gently rotate your palm toward your body.
5. Your thumb will naturally fall into a small depression. This area is traditionally identified as the Yang Lao point.

Because everyone’s body structure is slightly different, the exact location may vary. The goal is not to press a specific “magic spot,” but to find a comfortable area around the wrist for gentle stimulation.

How to Practice Gentle Acupressure

Once the point is located, use your thumb to gently massage the area.

A simple routine:

• Massage one wrist for several minutes.
• Switch to the other wrist.
• Keep the pressure comfortable.
• Avoid pressing too hard or causing pain.

Many traditional wellness routines suggest practicing regularly, such as a few minutes each day, as part of a broader healthy aging lifestyle.

What Science Says About Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a structural change in the eye caused by aging. At present, there is no strong scientific evidence that acupressure can reverse presbyopia or restore the eye’s focusing ability.

However, gentle massage and relaxation techniques may help some people feel more comfortable by reducing tension and promoting relaxation.

For maintaining healthy vision, the most important steps remain:

• Have regular eye examinations.
• Use appropriate reading glasses when needed.
• Maintain good lighting while reading.
• Take breaks during long periods of screen use.
• Keep an active and healthy lifestyle.

A Balanced Approach to Healthy Aging

Aging well is not about searching for a single solution. It is about combining modern healthcare with healthy daily habits and mindful self-care.

Traditional practices such as acupressure can be viewed as a complementary wellness approach — a simple way to slow down, pay attention to your body, and create moments of relaxation in everyday life.

For parents and older family members experiencing difficulty with close-up vision, the most valuable support is often a combination of regular eye care, healthy habits, and thoughtful attention to their changing needs.

Healthy aging begins with small actions repeated consistently.