AMD and the Elderly

AMD (age-related macular degeneration) is most known to occur in persons above the age of fifty. Palo Alto home care states that the macula is the part of the eye responsible for clear vision. It consists of light sensing cells and provides electrical signals translated from the light outside through the optic nerve. From there it is the brain’s job to create an image out of the signals being sent. The macula is the most fragile part of the retina. When AMD damages the macula those clear electric signals become cloudy and unclear. The brain receives the signal but cannot connect the sharper points to make a clean image. Most elderly people are at risk of developing AMD, but they are not the only ones. Smokers also have an increased risk of getting AMD. In fact, cigarette smoke has been proven to almost double the chances of developing AMD. Even race plays a part. People of color are far less likely to develop the disease than people of white or European ancestry. Palo Alto Senior Care understands that AMD is also known to be hereditary. Someone with a family history of AMD is more likely to develop it. It is not proven, but certain lifestyles are believed to help prevent AMD. Exercise and a healthy diet are a couple examples. Though they are not proven prevention measures, it cannot hurt to make such lifestyle changes. More specifically, green vegetables and fish are believed to help prevent AMD, as well as the maintenance of a healthy blood pressure and cholesterol. Palo Alto Elderly Care states that testing for AMD development is recommended for those over fifty. Not all the symptoms are detectable when the development begins. rnVisual acuity tests are given to decide how well your eyes can translate images at a distance. rnDilated eye exams will use drops to widen the pupil so a doctor can monitor your retina. AMD can have a terrible impact on the quality of one’s life and every measure should be taken to prevent this from occurring. If you are over fifty you should talk with your doctor today.