Most Over 50s are Not Aware…

New Zealand research has found that of those most at risk (50+ years), 47% have not heard of Macular Degeneration. This is despite the fact that one in seven in this age group is at risk of Macular Degeneration (MD). We are urging people to have their eyes examined regularly and to be aware of the symptoms of MD. Some common symptoms include:

• Dark patches or empty spaces in your vision
• Difficulty in activities requiring fine vision
• Distortion of straight lines to be wavy or bent
• Difficulty distinguishing things in the central vision

As well as people over the age of 50 having their macula checked regularly, there are other simple steps that can help reduce the risk of MD:

• Don’t smoke
• Keep a healthy lifestyle
• Eat a balanced diet including fish and dark green leafy vegetables
• Protect your eyes from UV damage

Macular Degeneration can lead to blindness, but early detection increases treatment options and helps sufferers maintain quality of life. Many people link deteriorating vision with getting older, but for the greater majority of people, poor vision in older age is unnecessary. OCT scans are now included in comprehensive eye examinations (age 50 and over) and post-cataract eye examinations. This is a 3D scan of your eye structures in 10 minutes, completely painless and non-invasive! It’s the gold standard for early detection of eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic eye disease. We are urging people to have their eyes examined regularly and to be aware of the symptoms of MD. A check for Macular Degeneration is a routine part of your eye examination here at Canon Street Optometrists. If you have questions, please contact us.