Final answer:
The near triad pathway, also known as the accommodation-convergence reflex, is an ocular process involving convergence of the eyes by the medial rectus muscles and accommodation of the lens by the ciliary muscles to focus on near objects. Over time, this ability can diminish, necessitating corrective lenses.
Step-by-step explanation:
The near triad pathway, more commonly referred to as the accommodation-convergence reflex, involves a series of coordinated eye movements and adjustments that allow us to focus on objects at various distances. When viewing objects that are close to the face, such as reading a book or looking at a computer screen, the medial rectus muscles of both eyes facilitate convergence, causing both eyes to adduct. Simultaneously, the ciliary muscles adjust the shape of the lens, a process controlled by the parasympathetic fibers of the oculomotor nerve, to increase the focal power of the eye. This process is termed accommodation in vision. As individuals age, the ability for accommodation diminishes, often requiring corrective lenses for tasks involving near vision.