The signs of aging – if only they didn’t exist. Unfortunately, however, there are many ways in which the body will change as the years progress. Failing vision is just one of many areas where older individuals will experience the signs of aging, and therefore, it is by no means rare. In fact, it’s one of the most common aspects to growing old.
Macular degeneration, a progressive eye condition, affects nearly 15 million Americans, and its numbers are growing as Baby Boomers reach their 60s and 70s. According to AMD.org, the website for the Macular Degeneration Partnership, “the disease attacks the macula of the eye, where our sharpest central vision occurs. Although it rarely results in complete blindness, it robs the individual of all but the outermost, peripheral vision, leaving only dim images or black holes at the center of vision.”
AMD, which stands for age-related macular degeneration, can fall into two categories. There is wet AMD, also known as neovascular, and there is dry AMD, also known as atrophic. And although no cure has yet been discovered, there are treatments that can address the wet form of the disease. Dry AMD, on the other hand, cannot be treated. However, AMD.org says that “training and special devices can promote independence and a return to favorite activities.”

If you believe that you or your aging loved one’s quality of life is deteriorating due to macular degeneration, do not hesitate to contact us at Freedom Home Care. We can provide a variety of services to help ease the transition into older age. And stay tuned to the blog, where we will deliver dietary recommendations that can slow the process of vision decline.