Old Age Facts on Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a medical condition with no known cure that damages the retina resulting in reduced vision. The condition is a major cause of visual impairment for those 50 and older.

• Macular Degeneration

Identification

• Age related macular degeneration begins with yellow deposits in the central area of the retina that may affect vision.

Types

• There are dry and wet forms of age related macular degeneration. The dry form is the result of a degeneration of the layer below the retina. The wet form is due to abnormal blood vessel growth.

Considerations

• Certain groups have an increased risk of developing macular degeneration including senior citizens. Close to 10 percent of all seniors 66 and older will experience some form. Other risk factors include family history and identification of the macular degeneration gene.

Symptoms

• Macular degeneration symptoms include blurred vision, dark or blockage of vision, distorted vision, inability to determine colors and reduced contrast sensitivity.

Potential

• Macular degeneration has the ability to advance blindness resulting in an inability to see faces or to drive a vehicle.