Age-related Macular Degeneration
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision impairment in elderly Australians.
This degenerative condition affects the macula, a small area at the centre of the retina. The macula is responsible for fine detailed vision, which is required for activities such as driving, reading and distinguishing colour.
AMD affects a person's central vision, including both distance and near vision, and can lead to partial vision loss or blind-spot areas in the centre. The side (or peripheral) vision remains intact.
Functional implications of AMD include:
- Being unable to differentiate between the footpath and road.
- Having difficulty identifying the edge of steps if there is no colour contrast.
- Being unable to determine traffic-light changes.
- Having difficulty reading, with blurred words and letters running together.
- Having difficulty distinguishing people's faces.
- Having difficulty with close work.
- Misjudging the speed and distance of oncoming traffic when crossing the road.
- Having difficulty distinguishing between objects of a similar colour, due to dimming colour vision.
- Having sensitivity to glare and light.
- Having difficulty adjusting to lighting changes, especially in areas with low light.
- Perceiving straight lines as distorted or curved.
People with AMD may be able to move around safely with minimal difficulty or locate items with their peripheral vision.
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