I'm 73 and can't see well without glasses, but I can tie down to #30 with my prescription bifocals. Just had the optician set them for the proper distance. I also have 5X magnifiers, but they give me eyestrain if I wear them too long. Lighting is also very important. As to hooks, I have been using Gamakatsu C12-BM hooks for sizes #26 - #30. They are short shank, wide gape, barbless, and large eye. Very user friendly both for tying and fishing.