What condition is characterized by the ability to see distant objects better than close ones?

The condition characterized by the ability to see distant objects more clearly than those that are close is known as hyperopia, also referred to as farsightedness. In hyperopia, light entering the eye is focused behind the retina instead of directly on it, making it more challenging to focus on nearby objects. People with hyperopia often experience difficulty reading or doing other close-up tasks, but they may have clear vision for distant objects.

In contrast, myopia (nearsightedness) is when close objects are seen clearly while distant objects appear blurry. Astigmatism is a condition where the cornea or lens is irregularly shaped, causing blurred vision at any distance. Presbyopia is an age-related condition that affects the ability to focus on close objects, typically starting around age 40. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why hyperopia is the correct answer for the provided question.