What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Also known as AMD, it is the most common cause of vision change in people over 50. When the macular, the most sensitive part of the retina, becomes damaged, people experience changes in their central vision — the ability to see objects in fine detail.

Although age is the most common reason, lifestyle choices such as smoking and high blood pressure may also contribute, as well as a family history. However, there is no genetic test for Age-related Macular Degeneration.

Who can have AMD?

AMD is more common in people of Caucasian descent than in other ethnicities. The risk heightens with age, as the name suggests.

What can people with AMD see?

As the macular deteriorates, vision may change over time. In some people it can happen almost too slowly to notice, whereas it can happen very rapidly in others. In all cases people will experience changes in their ability to see fine details, causing difficulty with facial recognition, reading, writing and other tasks.

Assistive Technology

People with AMD do not usually go completely blind, so magnification software such as Zoomtext may be most suitable. However, some people may also choose to use a combination of magnification and speech such as Zoomtext Fusion. Closed circuit televisions or stand-alone reading machines may also prove useful, as may cell phones with scanning software such as the KNFB reader. Talk with Elise and the team to determine what may be most suitable.