What is Macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is the name given to a group of chronic, degenerative retinal eye diseases that cause progressive loss of central vision, leaving the peripheral or side vision intact.

It affects the ability to read, drive, recognise faces and perform activities that require detailed vision.

Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration, is the leading cause of legal blindness and severe vision loss in Australia, responsible for 50% of all cases of blindness.

Macular degeneration is usually related to ageing and most frequently affects people over the age of 50.

However, it is not a normal or inevitable consequence of ageing. Certain forms of the disease can also affect younger people.

Macular degeneration is progressive and painless and although it can lead to legal blindness, it does not result in total or 'black' blindness.

About one in seven Australians – or 1.15 million people – over the age of 50 years has some evidence of this disease.

The early detection of any form of macular degeneration is crucial to saving sight.

Difficulty with vision should never be dismissed as just a part of getting older.

In its early stages macular degeneration may not result in noticeable visual symptoms but it can be detected with an eye test.

The earlier that macular degeneration is detected the earlier that steps can be undertaken to help slow its progression and save sight through treatment and/or lifestyle modifications.

Any sudden changes to vision should be treated as a medical emergency. See an optometrist or ophthalmologist immediately.

Macular Disease Foundation Australia represents the macular disease community by advocating for improved access to treatments and low vision aids, technologies and services.

For further information visit www.md foundation.com.au