Living with AMD

Help with low vision

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

Staying healthy

AMD is often linked to an unhealthy lifestyle.

If you have it, try to:

• eat a balanced diet
• 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, but this is not definitive.

Driving

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 DVLA about your condition if:

• it affects both eyes
• it only affects 1 eye but your remaining vision is below the minimum standards of vision for driving

Monitoring and check-ups

You'll 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.

Registering as sight impaired

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.

Getting more help and support

Living with AMD can be very difficult.

In addition to support from your specialist, you may find it useful to use support groups such as:

• Macular Society: support services – contact their helpline on 0300 3030 111
• RNIB: sight loss advice service – contact their helpline on 0303 123 9999