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February: A Month Dedicated to Eye Health

February marks an important time in the realm of eye health, as Prevent Blindness has officially designated this month as Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Low Vision Month. This initiative aims to provide impactful educational resources and support for individuals and families affected by vision impairment.

Understanding Age-related Macular Degeneration

According to experts, AMD is the leading cause of severe visual loss for those aged 50 and older in the United States. Approximately 4 million Americans live with some form of low vision, which is an ongoing visual impairment that cannot be corrected with typical means such as glasses or contact lenses.

AMD specifically impacts the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. Damage to this area can result in blurred or distorted central vision and potentially lead to blind spots.

AMD is generally classified into two main types:

• - Dry AMD: This type is the more common variant, characterized by the presence of yellow deposits, known as drusen, beneath the retina. These deposits restrict the flow of essential nutrients to the retinal cells, progressively leading to vision impairment.
• - Wet AMD: This is the more severe version, where fragile new blood vessels invade the retina and can leak fluid, causing rapid vision loss.

Raising Awareness and Resources

The growing population of older adults inevitably leads to a sharp increase in those affected by AMD. Many individuals encounter difficulties engaging in everyday activities such as reading, recognizing faces, and driving. Recognizing this, Prevent Blindness has curated comprehensive resources aimed at minimizing vision loss and promoting independence among those living with AMD.

As part of its efforts during AMD and Low Vision Month, Prevent Blindness introduces the AMD GuideMe app, providing tailored learning experiences and resources for users. Additional educational materials, including fact sheets in both English and Spanish, are also made available to facilitate widespread awareness.

Shared Stories from Those Affected

One significant initiative is the ASPECT Patient Engagement Program, where Laurie S., a member of the program, shares her journey with AMD. She discusses her family's history with the disease and its impact on her daily life, from reading music to participating in support groups. This initiative underscores the value of community and support in navigating vision challenges.

Educational videos featuring experts, such as Dr. W. Lloyd Clark from the Palmetto Retinal Center and Dr. R. Tracy Williams from the Spectrios Institute for Low Vision, further enhance understanding of AMD and low vision. These resources encompass topics that not only address the medical aspects but also delve into the psychological effects of vision impairment, particularly in relation to mental wellness.

Support and Resources for Independence

The Living Well With Low Vision program provides practical insights not only to those living with low vision but also their caregivers and healthcare professionals. Key content focuses on improving life quality for the visually impaired, exploring resources related to self-help, mental wellness, clinical trials, and much more. This program is made possible through generous grants from organizations like Amgen and Genentech.

For those wishing to explore more about AMD and its implications, Prevent Blindness has set up informative pages, highlighting geographic atrophy as well as offering general information about sustaining eye health. A dedicated resource listing agencies providing financial assistance for eye care can also be found, catering to both English and Spanish speakers, ensuring inclusivity in access to essential care.

About Prevent Blindness

Founded in 1908, Prevent Blindness stands as America’s foremost volunteer organization committed to fighting blindness and enhancing vision across the nation. By engaging in public education, advocacy, certified vision screening, and community programs, the organization has touched the lives of millions annually. The overarching goal remains the elimination of preventable blindness.

To learn more about these vital resources or for further information on eye health, visit PreventBlindness.org. Your awareness can make a significant difference in the lives of those impacted by vision challenges.