Do Macular Degenerations lead to total blindness?

[West Swanzey]

Do Macular Degenerations lead to total blindness?

[Lowell]

Mascular degenerations does not cause total blindness. Macular degeneration affects the center of the retina in the back of the eye, which is called the macula. In essence, the support system underneath the retina wears out. As a result, the overlying retina begins to lose its capacity to see well. The center of the field of vision is affected in one or both eyes. Most people with Macular Degeneration do retain some peripheral vision, and they learn to optimize the use of their remaining vision. Each case differs. However, many will be classified as legally blind. Legally blind individuals are those whose best visual sharpness or acuity is 20/200 or worse in their better eye; or whose visual field, regardless of acuity, is restricted to a 20 degree diameter.Although macular degeneration is a serious condition, it doesn't cause total blindness. The majority of people diagnosed with this condition have slow, progressive degeneration, which we call dry macular degeneration. Many have good vision throughout their lives and experience only subtle, mild changes.

[West Sunbury]

Macular degeneration develops differently in each person. Because it will affect different regions of the macula from person to person, the symptoms tend to vary. Macular degeneration causes a progressive loss of central sight, however, it does not cause total blindness. Peripheral vision is unaffected allowing a certain amount of mobility in normal surroundings. If left untreated, the wet type of macular degeneration may progress rapidly.

[Lowellville]

Macular Degenerations is a common eye condition and a leading cause of vision loss among people age 50 and older. In some people, Macular Degenerations advances so slowly that vision loss does not occur for a long time. In others, the disease progresses faster and may lead to a loss of vision in one or both eyes. But the disease does not lead to complete blindness. However, the loss of central vision in Macular Degeneration can interfere with simple everyday activities, such as the ability to see faces, drive, read, write, or do close work, such as cooking and so on.