Age-Related Macular Degeneration which is abbreviated to AMD is a chronic vision condition that emerges with critical symptoms like blurred or fuzzy vision, straight lines that seem wavy or crooked, difficulty seeing at a distance and/or a small but growing, decreased contrast or color sensitivity, and blind spot in the center of vision. The aforementioned symptoms are often controllable, moreover, these symptoms can become fatal and troublesome to the person.

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The body of a senior citizen becomes fragile and brittle that’s a fact we all are well aware of, however, the impact of AMD falls much harder on the senior citizens than a normal adult person. According to research, Age-related macular degeneration is one of the prime reason behind raising rates of blindness in elder people. The 8.7% of the whole senior citizen population is affected severely due to AMD.

On the contrary side, the elderly who have been suffering from AMD and vision loss are losing grip from their life as well. As severe AMD results in depression which has been proven through a study that states, ‘Elderly people with AMD are depressed more than an average normal elderly person.’ The aforementioned reason is the case where the senior citizens are falling under isolation, fragility, and loss of independence.

Dr. Raja Narayanan of L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, stated that AMD cannot be cured, there are effective treatment options available that can reverse, slow or halt its progression.
“Treatment can prove more effective if AMD is diagnosed early. Today, there are treatment options available that can slow or halt the disease progression. Some of the treatment options available in India include laser photocoagulation, anti-VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) injections and combination therapy which includes laser and anti-VEGF treatment,” he added.

Dr. Ajay I Dudani of Bombay Hospital added, it is extremely important that the caregivers of AMD patients do not ignore the complaint of the patient about low vision or confuse it with old age.
“It is observed that empathy from family members and spending quality time with patients helps in making them feel positive. Additionally, following a healthy, balanced and nutritional diet boosts good eye health. All vegetables and fruits which are rich in lutein like green leafy vegetables, corn, kiwi, nuts, beans, salmon fish, eggs are good for eye health,” concluded Dr. Dudani.

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Treatment measure and tips to cure vision problems like AMD:

• Treatment of AMD is generally management based, however, medications are prescribed by the doctor for better vision and reduction of blurriness.
• Foods rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin E must be consumed to tackle Age-Related Macular degeneration that is sunflower seeds and almonds. spinach, Swiss chard, and turnip greens.
• There are supplements of multivitamins are available for consumption that can be consumed as well.

Conclusion:

On the occasion of the World Senior Citizen Day, awareness against Age-Related Macular degeneration must be spread out in order to help the senior citizens who are in constant need of support and care. This ailment has chronic impacts on the eyes so one must adopt every aspect and method to save the eyes from such ailments like AMD.

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Source: Business Standard