Assistive technologies for AMD

February is National Macular Degeneration Awareness Month, highlighting a common eye disease that affects about 20 million Americans. 

Typically but not always associated with aging, it affects nearly half of those 85 and older. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) gradually distorts sharp, central vision needed for everyday activities such as reading and driving. AMD progresses slowly in some individuals with minimal impact; others experience faster vision loss.

The disease damages the macula, a tiny area in the center of the retina, containing millions of light-sensing cells responsible for central vision. The retina, a paper-thin tissue lining the back of the eye, sends visual signals to the brain. Macular degeneration compromises this critical vision system.

There are two forms of macular degeneration: wet and dry. Dry AMD affects approximately 90% of patients and involves the slow breakdown of light-sensing cells in the macula, causing gradual central vision loss. Wet AMD, while affecting only 10% of patients, accounts for 90% of blindness from the disease. It develops when fragile new blood vessels grow and leak blood and fluid under the macula, causing rapid damage and vision loss.

While there is no cure for AMD, there are treatments to slow its progression. Lifestyle choices like eating a diet rich in leafy greens and fish, exercising and wearing UV-protective sunglasses can help prevent the disease.

At Magnifiers & More, we offer assistive technologies to help improve quality of life, including magnification devices, text-to-speech devices, large print items, telescopic glasses that minimize images into frontal vision, special lighting and assistive apps.

Magnifiers & More is located at 7775 Mentor Avenue, in Mentor. Visit MagnifiersAndMore.net or call 440-946-3363 for more information.