Living with Age-related Macular Degeneration

Humans have a wide visual field, in fact each eye has a range of 150° horizontally and 130° vertically. After suffering a loss of central vision, the area that enables us to see with greatest resolution, you can learn to adapt how you use the healthy peripheral area in order to optimise your overall vision. This is known as peripheral vision training.

Therapists, supported by various different techniques, strategies and resources, provide personalised care to visually impaired patients so that they can go about their daily activities, actively participate in any environment (educational, occupational, cultural, leisure, etc.) and enjoy normal social integration.

Sunlight increases the chances of developing macular degeneration and also accelerates the disease's progression. The use of sunglasses, hats and visors is very important to protect your eyes when outdoors.

Smokers are advised to quit and you should follow a balanced diet high in fresh fruits, vegetables and fish which is also low in animal fats. If you do not follow a varied Mediterranean diet, then your doctor may prescribe vitamin supplements.

To prevent falls around the house it is important to adapt your home with good lighting, avoid glares and try to increase contrast.

It can prove difficult to accept that you have macular degeneration and you may need to make a lot of changes in your life. As a patient with AMD it is important that you are well informed about how to live with the condition and you feel supported, whether by your family, friends, support groups or associations.