Macular degeneration is a common eye disease that primarily affects the elderly. It can cause alterations in vision that can be difficult to deal with on a daily basis. As we get older, it’s more crucial than ever to identify the warning signs of macular degeneration and help seniors cope with these changes. This blog will discuss the telltale indications of macular degeneration and provide practical advice on helping seniors adjust to their changing visual abilities. It also gives tips for elder care and loved ones when caring for seniors struggling with this issue.

Understanding Macular Degeneration

The macula, a tiny but vital portion of the retina that is in charge of central vision, is the main target of macular degeneration, a degenerative eye condition. Macular degeneration comes in two primary forms: moist and dry. In wet macular degeneration, aberrant blood vessels form beneath the retina, while in dry macular degeneration, light-sensitive cells in the macula gradually break down.

Macular Degeneration Symptoms

While no two situations are the same, there are common symptoms that the elder care team and loved ones can monitor to ensure seniors are doing okay.

  • Blurred or Distorted Vision: A blurred or distorted center vision is one of the early indicators of macular degeneration. Seniors may experience trouble reading, identifying faces, or focusing on tasks that call for intense concentration. If they confide in the elder care team that they are struggling, it’s essential for them to see an eye doctor right away.
  • Difficulty Identifying Colors: Seniors may find it difficult to differentiate between different shades due to macular degeneration, which can impair color perception. It’s also possible that colors will seem less vivid or blur together.
  • Dark or Empty Spots in Vision: Seniors may feel dark or empty spots in their center vision as the condition worsens. This is particularly significant because blind spots can cause problems, whether while driving or reading. When monitoring seniors, the elder care team should pay particular attention to this issue.
  • Straight Lines Seeming Wavy: Seeing straight lines appear wavy is a common sign of wet macular degeneration. This deformity may be a sign of aberrant blood vessel development below the macula.
  • Enhanced Light Sensitivity: Seniors who have macular degeneration may have an increase in light sensitivity, making it uncomfortable to be in bright areas as a result.

Helping Seniors With Macular Degeneration

Beyond monitoring for symptoms, there are several things that the elder care team and loved ones can do to help seniors with a macular degeneration diagnosis. For instance, seniors should be encouraged to keep and maintain all eye exams.

Also, to reduce eye strain, make sure living areas are well-lit and encourage seniors to use magnifying equipment, such as electronic magnifiers or magnifying glasses. Additionally, loved ones might consider incorporating contrasting colors for walls, furniture, and other things to create more contrast in living areas. Finally, it might be helpful to look into assistive technology made for those who are blind or visually impaired. Other solutions that can improve accessibility include voice-activated devices and screen-reading software.

Seniors who have macular degeneration face difficulties since it impairs their central vision. For those who have this illness, early detection of the symptoms and sufficient support can greatly enhance quality of life. With careful and considerate monitoring, the home care team can pinpoint a possible issue and encourage seniors to get the care they need.

Sources:
https://www.macularsociety.org/support/daily-life/practical-guides/home/
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/macular-degeneration/caregiving-for-amd
https://www.verywellhealth.com/macular-degeneration-coping-support-and-living-well-4160591

If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in Eden Prairie, MN, and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.