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 +

The most affordable, healthy foods for adults

Maybe your New Year's resolution for 2011 was to shave off a few pounds, cholesterol points or both -- but one thing is for sure -- gyms across the country never seem quite as populated in February as early January.  Some struggle to workout; others find it difficult to eat well-balanced meals.  The old saying "you are what you eat" carries a certain weight though (no pun intended), because even if we do exercise regularly, if our diets are off kilter then results just won't come.  Dr. Mercola, author of a popular Health Newsletter, said the following about food choice:

When you consider the nutrient value of fresh versus processed-to-death denatured foods and the subsequent health consequences of each choice, it's quite clear that you can eat well and improve your health and still not spend a fortune.

PlanetGreen released a list today of 15 "superfoods" for less than $20, and accompanying recipes.  Some of the more savory choices: Quinoa With Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato Red Curry with Baby Bok Choy and Tofu and Brown Basmati Rice, and Sweet Potato Pancakes.

For Seniors, check out this article with the 100 Best Health Foods for Seniors from Geriatricnursingcertification.com.  This resource is helpful in that the article lists the best foods for brain health, bone health, eye-sight, and more.   Evan H. Farr on Google +

A leading cause of blindness is on the decline

"Age related macular degeneration" (AMD), a disease most prevalent in women over 60, is on the decline according to a study by the Archives of Ophthalmology.  The number of Americans who suffer from age-related macular degeneration is down by nearly a third.

Macular degeneration damages the middle of the retina, making it hard to see small details.  While scientists aren’t certain as to what causes the disease, they often refer to it as “Age Related Macular Degeneration” because people over 60 tend to develop the disease at a higher rate than other age groups. 

“"There have been a number of changes over time that might have a relationship to the findings in this paper. There's been less current smoking in the population. . . . [w]e need to examine these relationships and see if they explain this difference,” said Dr. Ronald Klein, author of the study. 

Risk factors for the disease, according to Google Health, are:

-         Heredity

-         Smoking

-         Diet (high fat)

-         Gender (female)

-         Race (Caucasian)

-         Health (obesity

“No treatment exists for dry macular degeneration. However, a combination of vitamins, antioxidants, and zinc may slow the progression of the disease,” (Source: Google Health)

For more reading on this news, read the CNN article here. 

Image: Michelle Meiklejohn / FreeDigitalPhotos.net Evan H. Farr on Google +