News
Face the facts on macular degeneration
It’s Macular Degeneration Awareness Week and Guide Dogs SA/NT is joining with Macular Disease Foundation Australia to urge Australians to “Face the Facts about Macular Degeneration” and take steps to reduce their risk.
Macular degeneration is Australia’s leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss. It causes loss of central vision which affects the ability to see fine detail, drive, read and recognise faces.
The Facts:
- An eye test can save your sight
- one in seven Australians aged over 50 have some evidence
- 50% chance if a direct family history
- You can have the early signs without knowing
- Diet and lifestyle supports good macular health
Have your macula checked. Early detection is the best way to save sight. Book an eye test and macula check with your optometrist today.
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss in Australia. Macular degeneration is the name given to a group of chronic, degenerative retinal eye diseases that cause progressive loss of central vision, leaving the peripheral or side vision intact.
Macular degeneration is usually related to ageing and most frequently affects people over 50 years of age. It is commonly referred to as age-related macular degeneration or AMD.
Guide Dogs SA/NT has services and can provide advice and equipment for people with vision loss to maximise their available vision and lead independent lives. Check out our vision services or contact the support line 1800 757 738.
