In February Spread Awareness About Age-related Macular Degeneration and Low Vision

February is dedicated to increasing awareness of macular degeneration (AMD) and low vision. AMD is the number one cause of blindness for individuals age 65 and over. Macular degeneration can result in low vision, a phrase eye care professionals use to refer to significant vision loss that is sometimes known as “legal blindness” or almost total blindness. In the case of macular degeneration, a degenerative eye disease, impairment is caused to the macula, the area of the retina which enables clear vision in the central visual field. AMD causes a vision loss relating to the central vision zone, but typically leaves peripheral vision intact.

Vision Impairment from AMD is usually gradual but occasionally vision loss can drastically appear seemingly overnight. Early signs of vision impairment from AMD include blurred areas in your central visual field or unusually distorted sight. While AMD doesn’t have a cure yet, early diagnosis and attention is known to stop advancement of the disease and therefore thwart vision impairment. For those who have already experienced vision loss, a normal life can be maintained with low-vision rehabilitation.

Those at higher risk of AMD include individuals over 65, females, Caucasians and individuals with light eye color, severe hyperopia (farsightedness) or family members with the disease. Risk factors that can be controlled include smoking, hypertension, exposure to UV light and obesity. Proper exercise and nutrition including certain nutrients can reduce your risk.

Individuals who suffer from low vision should consult with an optometrist about low vision training and specialized equipment that can facilitate independence. After a thorough eye exam, a low vision professional can recommend helpful low vision aids such as magnifiers and non-optical adaptive aids such as electronic ''talking'' clocks and large-face printed material.

While AMD is more likely in the elderly, anyone can be affected and therefore it is wise for every individual to schedule a yearly eye exam to determine eye health and discuss ways to prevent AMD and low vision.