The sudden stress that even the smallest amounts of vision loss impose on people can feel crushing. Education and knowledge about the best strategies and tools to regain your independence is vital. Here are some tips for coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration:
Stay informed about AMD
It is important to understand your condition and know what to expect as it progresses. Our low vision optometrist can provide you with information about your specific case, what are some of the challenges that may occur and why, and help you understand your options for improving your vision and managing your condition.
There is nothing more traumatic than sudden changes in vision, it is important to fully understand the changes and how to best live with them.
Use low vision devices for AMD
There are many low vision devices that are available that can help you see better and perform daily activities with greater ease. These may include magnifiers, special glasses, filtered lenses, and adaptive computer software. Our low vision optometrist and therapist can help you choose the right aids for your needs.
Seek support from government, non-profit, and medical resources
Coping with vision loss can be emotionally and physically challenging. It is important to seek support from friends, family, and support groups. Our eye doctor may also be able to refer you to a counselor or support group in your area. Having the support from a low vision optometrist is an important member of your care team..
Stay active
Regular physical activity can help you maintain your physical and mental health. It is important to find activities that you enjoy and that are within your capabilities.
Make your home and workplace accessible
There are many changes you can make to your home and workplace to make them more accessible and safe. These may include installing bright lighting, using contrasting colors, and removing tripping hazards. Our eye doctor or a low vision rehabilitation specialist can provide you with more specific recommendations.
Keep a healthy lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you manage your condition and reduce your risk of other health problems. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, and managing any chronic conditions you may have.
If you or a loved one is coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration, it is important to work closely with our low vision optometrist. Our low vision optometrist can provide you with the necessary care and support to manage your condition and maintain your quality of life. To schedule a low vision exam, please call (360) 491-2121.
As a low vision optometrist, it's important to understand the different stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and the associated symptoms.
Early-stage dry AMD typically has no noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, the following symptoms may develop:
In intermediate-stage dry AMD, some people may still have no symptoms, but others may experience the following:
Late-stage dry AMD can cause severe vision loss and the following symptoms:
It's important to note that the symptoms of wet AMD, a less common and more severe form of the disease, can progress rapidly and lead to sudden vision loss. If you experience any sudden changes in your vision, it's crucial to seek prompt medical attention.
Macular degeneration is a condition that affects the macula, a small area located in the center of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. It is a common cause of vision loss, particularly in individuals over the age of 50. When the macula begins to deteriorate, it can lead to a loss of central vision and make it difficult to see fine details. There is no cure for macular degeneration, but there are steps that can be taken to slow its progression and manage its symptoms.
Are you experiencing any changes in your vision, such as blurriness or distortion? Are you having difficulty reading or performing tasks that require fine vision? Are you noticing a decreased ability to see colors accurately, or a dark or empty area in your central field of vision? Do straight lines appear wavy or distorted to you? If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be suffering from macular degeneration.
It is crucial to see our qualified eye doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can help to preserve your vision and maintain overall eye health. Don't hesitate, call (360) 491-2121 today to schedule a low vision exam.
If you are searching for a low vision optometrist, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced professional. Simply search for "low vision eye doctor near me" or "low vision optometrist near me" to find a list of professionals in your area. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family, or consult with your primary care doctor for a referral.
If you or a loved one is experiencing vision loss due to macular degeneration, don't wait to seek help. A low vision eye exam with our low vision optometrist near you can help to diagnose and manage your condition and maximize your remaining vision. Don't let macular degeneration hold you back, take control of your vision and call (360) 491-2121 today to schedule an appointment. Patients with macular degeneration visit our clinic from all over Washington, and we are proud to be a leading provider of low vision eye care services for macular degeneration patients from Olympia, Lakewood, Tacoma, and Lacey.
Such a nice optician. My grandson is only 4 and needs glasses. We were so sad, but he explained the issues, and we will follow up as he suggested.
I had such a good experience with the clinic. Very friendly staff and doctor, did not have to wait for long to be called, and was treated respectfully. Thanks, American Family.
Dr. Zurcher has gone above and beyond what any other eye doctor has ever done to figure out what is going on with my eyes. Very happy with American Family Vision.
Family Vision Clinic changed our lives! My daughter was frequently car sick, and she was getting headaches every day, often painful enough that they brought her to tears. We saw a string of doctors and therapists, but we made no progress. Finally, we found Dr. Levi Zurcher and his eye therapist Rain. After ten weeks of eye therapy my daughter no longer gets headaches, and she no longer gets car sick. Daily tears are a thing of the past. I really can’t say enough about this clinic. It was fascinating to watch Dr. Zurcher work. For the first time, someone who knew what they were doing was intently studying my daughter, really trying to figure out all of her eye issues, and his therapist Rain is one of the most patient and lovely people that I’ve ever had the good fortune to meet. We’re finished with eye therapy—yay!—and I have switched to American Family Vision Clinic for all of my family’s other eye health needs.
Very professional, yet kind and helpful. They do what they can to make the appointment comfortable. I was running a bit late, I made sure ti call. They were able to switch me with a patient who was already there, they treated me with respect, and helped my son have confidence by getting him the eye care he needed that day. Thank you so much! Would recommend to anyone. It's a blessing that they care enough to work with people who have all different types of insurance from work to state coverage.
The staff is friendly. The Doc is very knowledgeable. The office is family friendly and everyone is so patient with the little ones.
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