Tips for Living With Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration is an eye disease involving damage to the macula, which is part of the retina. The condition is generally age-related and the risk of developing the disease increases over the age of 60.

When the macula breaks down, it causes a gradual decline in central vision. This makes it difficult to see details, recognize faces, and perform everyday activities such as driving and reading. 
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According to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation, AMD affects close to 20 million Americans. It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over the age of 60.

Currently, there is no cure for AMD. However, treatment is available, which may slow down vision loss. There are also several things an individual can do daily to make coping with AMD easier.
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​Creating a safe and comfortable home with AMD

Your home is a place to relax, recharge, and unwind. If you have age-related macular degeneration, there are certain things you can do to increase the safety of your living environment as you adapt to any vision changes. Consider the following suggestions:

Improve lighting: Adequate lighting may decrease the risk of falls and accidents around your home. Make sure you have good lighting, especially on stairs, hallways, and walkways outside.

Organize your living space: A cluttered living space can create obstacles and make it difficult to navigate if you develop low vision. Organize and simplify items in your home to make them easy to reach and find. For instance, store similar items or items you regularly use together in the same place.

Use bright colors to label items: Having macular degeneration does not affect color vision. Using bright colors on labels can help you distinguish between items. You can also use rubber bands around items or puffy craft paint to identify an item by touch.
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Utilize low-vision devices  

Many advances in assistive technology are helpful for individuals with low vision. Talk to a low-vision specialist or an eye care specialist to determine which devices may be best for you. 

Options include:

• Large print books
• Magnifier glasses
• Standing magnifiers
• Voice assistant technology

​Try not to give up your favorite activities and hobbies

Living with age-related macular degeneration does not mean you have to give up your hobbies or favorite activities. Depending on your interests, you may have to make some modifications to continue to engage in your enjoyed activities. For example, if you love to read, consider switching to audiobooks. 

Control what you can

It's not uncommon for people to develop a sense of loss once diagnosed with a chronic condition, such as macular degeneration. Any condition threatening your vision may also threaten your independence and sense of control. However, there are still several things you can control so try to focus on those aspects of your life that you still have control over. For example, you still have control over lifestyle habits such as exercising regularly, eating a well-balanced diet, getting enough rest, and avoiding smoking. 

Additionally, having a positive mindset, while not always easy, can help improve your quality of life. 
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​Stay connected to family and friends

Do your best to stay connected with your family, friends, and community. Remember, your family and friends likely want to do what they can to support you. Make time for regular visits and social activities. It may also be helpful to join a local support group for low-vision individuals. Support groups can be beneficial for education and also emotional well-being.

Currently, there is no cure for age-related macular degeneration. However, many things, including healthy lifestyle habits, using low-vision assistive devices, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can improve your quality of life.

If you have any questions about age-related macular degeneration, we are happy to help. If you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.