Henry’s Health And Medical Advice

Posted on: 21 March 2020

Macular degeneration is a common condition in those aged over 40, and at present, there is no cure. However, as described below, there are a few things you can do to manage your condition and to make your everyday life as easy as possible.

Get Your Eyes Tested Regularly 

Everyone should get their eyes tested regularly, but people with macular degeneration should be extra vigilant about regular testing. This is because your optometrist will be able to look at your eyes, chart how they are changing, and give you expert advice about how to reduce the impact of your condition. There is also an at-home test you should do even more regularly, called the Amsler grid. The American Academy of Ophthalmology explains that the test consists of a grid, which you can look at on a computer or print out, and the worse your macular degeneration is, the wavier and more irregular it will look. The site has full directions on how to do this test. If you notice that your vision is changing at all, speak to an optometrist for advice, as you may need new glasses or assistive devices.

Eat A Healthy, Nutrient-Rich Diet

Eating a healthy diet is, of course, good for any condition, but there are certain vitamins that are said to slow the progress of macular degeneration and keep your eyes healthy. For example, you should eat meals that are high in vitamin A and B, as well as niacin, lutein, and potassium. Fruits and vegetables generally tend to be high in these vitamins, especially leafy, green vegetables like kale. The American Macular Degeneration Foundation offers some specific recipes and suggestions for healthy meals, from a hearty winter squash stew to spicy udon noodles, as well as a chart of healthy foods and snack suggestions like kale chips.

Find Out What Assistive Devices Might Help

While there is no cure for macular degeneration, there are things you can do to make your daily life easier. Having the correct prescription for your glasses will be vital, and you may find it easier if you pick up some large print books and increase the font size on your phone and computer. However, the American Macular Degeneration Foundation suggests some additional devices, such as CCTV magnifiers to help you with close-up projects like sewing and knitting, telescopic devices to see the writing on a board, or software to help you see and read. Think about what areas of your everyday life you have difficulty with, and ask your doctor or optometrist what devices or methods they would recommend.

By getting your eyes tested regularly, testing your eyes at home with the Amsler grid, eating a healthy, eye-friendly diet, and deciding on some devices to make reading or working easier, you can make your macular degeneration as manageable as possible.