What does arcus senilis indicate in the elderly?

Arcus senilis is characterized by the appearance of a gray or white ring around the cornea, often seen in the eyes of older adults. This phenomenon is generally regarded as a normal aging change rather than a pathological condition. It results from lipid deposition in the cornea, which is a common consequence of aging and does not typically indicate any underlying disease or need for intervention.

While other conditions associated with the eye can often be concerning, arcus senilis itself does not signal hypertension, increased risk for glaucoma, or any condition that requires immediate intervention. In elderly individuals, the presence of arcus senilis is considered benign and thus affirms the understanding that it is simply a part of the normal physiological process associated with aging.