Free Low Vision Guide and Catalog

How Macular Degeneration Affects Your Vision and Finding the Right Macular Degeneration Aid

In the early stages of macular degeneration, no noticeable change to vision may occur; however as macular degeneration develops, sharp and central loss of vision will result. As AMD (age-related macular degeneration) is presented in two forms, Wet and Dry AMD, the time by which the vision is compromised varies. In situations where Wet AMD occurs, loss of vision develops suddenly in both eyes. However, Dry AMD is the more gradual breaking down of the light sensitive tissues and cells located in the retina and may affect one or both eyes.

Tips, Tools, and Macular Degeneration Aids

Should Wet AMD develop, immediate treatment is necessary to save any reading vision not yet claimed by advanced AMD. It is important to understand, once vision is lost, it cannot be restored, yet through treatment and the assistance of a macular degeneration aid for visual support, use of remaining vision will continue to allow elements of visual independence.

When seeking out a macular degeneration aid, consider the area of vision that is compromised. The correct macular degeneration aid will allow for additional lighting, as it is the light sensitive tissues and cells that are being broken down. Electronic low vision aids often provide features such as lighting adjustment.

Sharp vision is also damaged as a result of AMD. Features such as contrast viewing and color adjust contributes to the usefulness of the macular degeneration aid. With the ability to change from color to black and white, your eyes will be able to increase the information being gathered in more resolute definition.

Beyond magnification, image capture is also an important feature for a macular degeneration aid to possess. With the ability for a magnifier (handheld or desktop) to capture the image or text being viewed, and maintain or save the image, the individual is permitted the freedom to move the magnifier or screen (without losing the information) to a position where remaining vision is supportive. This increases the ability to use peripheral vision.

Depending on the macular degeneration aid, screen-viewing options may be available for selecting image and/or text placement. Choosing to display the information in a vertical posture (top to bottom) may avoid the area of missing vision (or dark spot), altogether.

Ultimately, the correct macular degeneration aid will provide the individual with the necessary visual support, along with structure and size requirements (including flexibility), able to best meet all the low vision needs caused by macular degeneration.