Can Vision Rehabilitation Help With Wet AMD?

Vision rehabilitation can be helpful for individuals with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) to help them make the most of their remaining vision and maintain their independence. While vision rehabilitation cannot cure wet AMD or reverse vision loss, it can provide strategies and tools to improve daily functioning and quality of life. Here are some ways vision rehabilitation can help with wet AMD:

Low vision aids: Vision rehabilitation specialists can assess an individual's specific vision needs and recommend appropriate low vision aids. These aids may include magnifiers, handheld telescopes, or electronic devices that can enhance visual details.

Mobility training: Wet AMD can affect central vision, making it challenging to move around safely. Vision rehabilitation specialists can provide mobility training to help individuals navigate their environment more confidently, such as using canes or white canes, obstacle avoidance techniques, and spatial orientation strategies.

Visual skills training: Vision rehabilitation can help individuals develop and enhance visual skills that may be affected by wet AMD, such as eccentric viewing (using the peripheral vision to see objects) and scanning techniques to maximize the use of remaining vision.

Adaptive strategies: Vision rehabilitation specialists can teach individuals adaptive strategies to help them perform daily tasks more easily. These strategies may include using large-print materials, organizing items in a way that is easier to see, and using technology such as talking clocks or magnifiers on mobile devices.

Counseling and support: Wet AMD can be emotionally challenging, and vision rehabilitation specialists can provide counseling and support to help individuals cope with their vision loss and adjust to their new visual abilities.

It's important to note that vision rehabilitation plans are tailored to each individual's specific needs and vision abilities. Working with a qualified vision rehabilitation specialist can help individuals with wet AMD optimize their vision and live more independently.