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|  | Macular degeneration is the loss of central vision experienced by some older adults. Symptoms include blurred vision, distorted vision or dark spots.
There are two types of macular degeneration. Dry macular degeneration occurs when the macula tissue (central part of the retina) thins and creates a gradual loss of vision. Wet macular degeneration—the more severe form—occurs when blood vessels grow into the retina. These vessels may leak and cause blurred vision.
While central vision is affected by macular degeneration, peripheral vision remains intact.
As people age, their metabolism slows down and the body is not able to dispel waste byproducts as quickly. From a vision standpoint, the waste naturally builds up and slows the blood flow circulation to the retina. These and other factors somewhat impair vision and may ultimately cause macular degeneration. Individuals who have macular degeneration retain some vision and do not normally become completely blind.
Individuals as young as 45 may experience symptoms of macular degeneration, but the disease usually affects those age 65 and older. Macular degeneration affects Caucasians more than African Americans, researchers believe, because the disease is caused by a loss of pigment in the body—affecting people with light-colored eyes and hair. Other individuals at risk for the disease are those with extreme farsightedness or hypertension. Unfortunately, the majority of people with this condition cannot expect to regain normal vision, although laser surgery may stop the progress of the disease.
A wide variety of optical devices are available to enhance the vision that does remain. They run the gamut from low-tech hand-held magnifiers, to closed-circuit television systems, to high-tech lenses and virtual reality headsets. Closed-circuit television cameras read and magnify type onto a monitor—allowing individuals to read straight from the screen. Also available are pocket-sized monoscopes, which can magnify an individual's field of view enough to see close objects.
Source: Better Vision Institute
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