Age related macular degeneration (AMD) - living with amd

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

Speak to your eye specialist about a referral to a low-vision clinic if you're having difficulty with daily activities.

Staff at the clinic can give useful advice and practical support.

For example, they can talk to you about:

• useful devices – such as magnifying lenses


• changes you can make to your home – such as brighter lighting


• software and mobile apps that can make computers and phones easier to use

If you have poor vision in both eyes, your specialist may refer you for a type of training called eccentric viewing training.

This involves learning techniques that help make the most of your remaining vision.

Read more about help and support if you have low vision

AMD is often linked to an unhealthy lifestyle.

If you have it, try to:

• eat a balanced diet


• exercise regularly


• lose weight if you're overweight


• stop smoking if you smoke

There's some evidence to suggest that certain health supplements might help stop AMD getting worse, but this is not definitive.

Important

Speak to a GP or your specialist if you're considering taking supplements for AMD. They're not suitable for everyone.

Macular Society: diet and nutrition for AMD

AMD can make it unsafe for you to drive. Ask your specialist if they think you should stop driving.

You're required by law to tell DVLA about your condition if:

• it affects both eyes


• it only affects 1 eye but your remaining vision is below the minimum standards of vision for driving

GOV.UK: driving eyesight rules

GOV.UK: how to tell DVLA about a medical condition

You'll have regular check-ups with a specialist to monitor your condition.

Contact your specialist as soon as possible if your vision gets worse or you notice any new symptoms.

Keep having routine eye tests (usually every 2 years). They can pick up other eye problems that your check-ups do not look for.

If your vision continues to get worse, you may want to consider registering your sight loss.

This can make it easier to claim financial benefits, such as help with health costs.

Your specialist can check your vision and complete an official certificate if you meet the requirements to be registered.

RNIB: registering as sight impaired

Living with AMD can be very difficult.

In addition to support from your specialist, you may find it useful to use support groups such as:

• Macular Society: support services – contact their helpline on 0300 3030 111


• RNIB: sight loss advice service – contact their helpline on 0303 123 9999

Important

See a GP if you've been feeling low for more than 2 weeks. They can offer support and treatment if you need it.