What is the primary cause of cataract development in elderly individuals?

The primary cause of cataract development in elderly individuals is age-related degeneration. As people age, the proteins in the lens of the eye undergo changes, leading to the clouding that characterizes cataracts. This natural degeneration process can be accelerated by various factors, but the fundamental cause is the aging of the tissues within the lens.

While conditions such as smoking, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus can contribute to cataract formation or increase the risk of developing cataracts, they are not as universally significant as the age-related changes in the lens. Age serves as the most common and primary factor leading to cataract development, highlighting the importance of understanding the normal physiological processes associated with aging and their impact on ocular health.