Older people who have macular degeneration may lose their central vision. Macular degeneration is a chronic, degenerative eye condition. More than 20 million Americans currently suffer from macular degeneration, and as the population ages, this figure is likely to rise. Macular degeneration cannot be cured, but it can be prevented or slowed down through dietary and behavioral modifications.

Why Macular Degeneration Must Be Prevented and How Important It Is:

In the US, macular degeneration is the most common cause of visual loss and blindness among older people. Its progression can be stopped or slowed down to maintain independence and enhance the quality of life. Age-related macular degeneration is the most prevalent type of macular degeneration (AMD). The area of the retina responsible for sharp central vision, the macula, is impacted by AMD. Over time, the condition weakens the macula, resulting in impaired or distorted vision and, in severe cases, total blindness.

Healthy Practices to Help Avoid Macular Degeneration Linked to Age:

Diet: Important nutrients like lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids that support macula protection can be found in a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish. Lutein and zeaxanthin are abundant in leafy greens like kale and spinach. Salmon and tuna are two fish that are high in omega-3s and can be healthy to consume.

Stop smoking: Smoking raises the risk of glaucoma, cataracts, and other eye conditions, including macular degeneration. Putting an end to your smoking habit will help lower your chances of macular degeneration.

Put on sunglasses to shield your eyes from UV rays, which can help prevent macular degeneration. When outdoors, wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection can help lower the danger of UV damage to the eyes.

Exercise: Being physically active on a regular basis will help you maintain a healthy weight and lower your risk of getting diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure, which can increase your risk of macular degeneration. On most days of the week, try to get in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking or swimming.

The significance of taking action to stop macular degeneration

Although there is no known cure for macular degeneration, it is crucial to take measures to stop or delay the disease's progression. Macular degeneration can be prevented from worsening, and residual vision can be preserved with early detection and treatment. People can help lower their risk of acquiring macular degeneration and other eye problems by leading a healthy lifestyle.

Macular degeneration is a common, deteriorating eye condition that can seriously impair vision in older people. Even though there is no cure for the condition, adopting healthy lifestyle practices can help to either prevent or decrease the disease's growth. The chance of acquiring macular degeneration and other eye illnesses can be lowered by eating a healthy diet, giving up smoking, wearing sunglasses, and engaging in regular exercise. People can help safeguard their vision and maintain their quality of life by changing their lifestyles. For more information on testing for macular degeneration, check out Visible Genomics and how we are helping millions of patients across North America.