Speak to your eye specialist about a referral to a low-vision clinic if you're having difficulty with daily activities.
Staff at the clinic can give useful advice and practical support.
For example, they can talk to you about:
- useful devices, such as magnifying lenses
- changes you can make to your home, such as brighter lighting
- software and mobile apps that can make computers and phones easier to use
If you have poor vision in both eyes, your specialist may refer you for a type of training called eccentric viewing training.
This involves learning techniques that help make the most of your remaining vision.
Read more about help and support if you have low vision
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is often linked to lifestyle.
If you have it, try to:
- eat a balanced diet that includes lots of fruit, fish and green, leafy vegetables
- exercise regularly
- lose weight if you're overweight
- stop smoking if you smoke
There's some evidence to suggest that certain health supplements might help stop AMD getting worse.
Important
Speak to a GP or your specialist if you're considering taking supplements for AMD. They're not suitable for everyone.
Macular Society: nutrition for AMD
AMD can make it unsafe for you to drive. Ask your specialist if they think you should stop driving.
You're required by law to tell the DVLA about your condition if it:
- affects both eyes
- only affects 1 eye but your remaining vision is below the minimum standards of vision for driving
GOV.UK: check if a health condition affects your driving
You may have regular check-ups with a specialist to monitor your condition.
Contact your specialist as soon as possible if your vision gets worse or you notice any new symptoms, ideally on the same day if you can.
Keep having routine eye tests (usually every 2 years). They can pick up other eye problems that your AMD check-ups do not look for.
If your vision continues to get worse, you may want to consider registering your sight loss.
This can make it easier to claim financial benefits, such as help with health costs.
Your specialist can check your vision and complete an official certificate if you meet the requirements to be registered.
RNIB: registering as sight impaired
Living with AMD can be very difficult.
You may find it useful to contact support groups such as:
- Macular Society: support for you – contact their helpline on 0300 3030 111
- RNIB – contact their helpline on 0303 123 9999
Important
See a GP if you've been feeling low for more than 2 weeks. They can offer support and treatment if you need it.
