Age Related Macular Degeneration: What to Look For

"Approximately 10% of patients 66 to 74 years of age will have findings of macular degeneration. The prevalence increases to 30% in patients 75 to 85 years of age." Source.

"Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease associated with aging that gradually destroys sharp, central vision," the National Eye Institute explains in its article, "Facts About Age Related Macular Degeneration." 

Since AMD is a common problem for Seniors, it is important for Seniors to understand what to look for. 

First, you should know what "Drusen" means: "[Drusen are] yellow deposits under the retina. They often are found in people over age 60," says the article.

For individuals who have noticed numerous small drusen, or medium sized drusen in smaller amounts, they should realize this may be a signal of "early AMD" even though they aren't experiencing vision loss or other symptoms.

Larger numbers of medium-sized drusen or even one large drusen may be suffering "intermeddiate AMD."  If an individual needs to use more light than usual.

For people with blurred spots in their vision, difficulty reading, or many large drusen, "advanced dry AMD" may be the issue.
Photographer: Salvatore Vuono
  Evan H. Farr on Google +