People with either type of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in one or both eyes should check the vision in each eye using an Amsler grid every day or as often as the doctor recommends. If any of the lines on the grid change or begin to appear wavy and curved, or if you notice that your vision is getting worse, call your doctor. If wet AMD has started to develop or is progressing, early treatment may be able to delay further loss of your central vision.

Living with reduced vision

Reduced vision or vision loss from AMD can affect your life in many ways. How much it will affect you depends on the severity of your vision loss and on your lifestyle. Work with your doctor to find ways to make the best use of your remaining vision. There are several things that you can do to adjust and keep your quality of life as much as possible:

• Use vision aids, such as magnifying devices and special appliances designed for people with limited vision.
• Rely on your support network of friends and family to help you.
• Seek counseling and training to help you cope with your reduced vision.
• Talk with your doctor about starting a self-management program, including health education and problem-solving skills related to living with vision loss. One study suggested that such programs may improve well-being and quality of life in older people who have AMD.⁹

Adapting to reduced vision from age-related macular degeneration

Emotional impact of AMD

Because AMD can lead to a significant loss of vision and, in most cases, because there is no effective treatment, finding out that you have AMD can be very difficult. You may feel angry if treatment cannot help you or feel anxious that loss of vision from AMD will make you less able to function on your own.

Although it is normal to feel unhappy about these changes, if your feelings of sadness are severe or do not improve, you may develop depression, which requires treatment. If you need help in dealing with your feelings about AMD, talk to your doctor and to your family and friends. Your doctor can also refer you to a counselor who specializes in helping people adjust to living with limited vision.