There are a number of eye disorders and vision problems which affect older people. Look at the Mayo Clinic's Slide Show: Age-related Vision Problems for a very useful and informative description plus photos of the most common vision impairment problems which you may encounter: CLICK HERE. You can also watch the videos on the right and below concerning macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma. Age-Related Macular Degeneration Age-related macular degeneration is one of the major causes of blindness in people over 80. If you have this disorder, you should join the Macular Society as a matter of priority. They offer you support and information about the latest research findings. Please see their website for full details. You can opt to listen to their website if you are visually impaired. Just click on the 'Listen' box at the top of their website. They also have a free helpline: 0300 3030 111. The line is manned during normal office hours by people who can answer most questions and provide information on the support available to both patients and their carers. There is no charge for this service and it is available to members and non-members. There is a treatment available for the most advanced form of age-related macular degeneration - End-Stage AMD which involves implanting a tiny telescope prosthesis in the eye - see the CentraSight website for more information. CentraSight is located in the United States. Ask your doctor about availability in the UK. Glaucoma Glaucoma is a term that describes a group of eye conditions that affect vision. The main nerve in the eye (the optic nerve) becomes damaged usually as a result of increased pressure in the eye. This can lead to misty and patchy vision which worsens if left untreated. There is more information on the International Glaucoma Association website - the charity for people with glaucoma. | Test yourself to see if you have macular degeneration or other eye disorders. Print out the Amsler Grid and follow the instructions: CLICK HERE |