Apart from the treatments, people who are already diagnosed for AMD can take some measures to improve their vision. There are several products available in the market to help people with low vision. This includes stand magnifiers, monoculars, binoculars, video magnifiers, reading machines and absorptive lenses. Most people get discouraged when using a particular device but you should not stop there try out various devices until you find the most suitable one for you.

The lighting arrangement can be changed to suit your need. Try to avoid glare in your home and office. Several types of special lights are available and you can test them for your needs.

If you are in the habit of reading, go for large print books, which are available in most libraries. Hand held magnifier can be used to read and view pictures.

While writing, write in large letters and increase the font while reading and writing in computers.

Patients in the advanced stage can make use of low vision aids.

Prevention is better than cure

Healthy habits can lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration. If there is a family history of AMD, you should take necessary precautions like consulting an ophthalmologist. As the disease mostly affects adults above 50, they should make periodical visit to the ophthalmologist. Taking nutritional supplements after consulting a doctor can be very helpful for middle-aged people and those with family history of AMD.

Researches have already established a direct relation between smoking and AMD. Lutein, an antioxidant, plays a major role in protecting the retina from ultraviolet rays. Tobacco hampers the absorption of lutein. By stopping to smoke, you are not only saving your eyes but also avoid the risk of several other diseases.

People with high blood pressure are more prone to AMD. Regular check up of blood pressure and treating it is very essential for avoiding AMD.

Pollution has damaged the natural protection against sun's rays. So it is wise to wear sun glasses for protection from ultraviolet rays.

A high fat diet is an invitation for AMD. A diet high in fruits and vegetables and antioxidants can prevent the disease to an extent. Including green vegetables and fish also reduces the risk.

Regular exercise and maintaining an optimum weight are also crucial for preventing AMD.

Check Your Vision Daily To Detect AMD

Amsler Grid can be used to check your vision at home. It is quite similar to a graph paper and has a dark dot in the center. By using the Amsler Grid, you can detect early signs of AMD. Missing area, blurring, wavy or broken links while watching Amsler Grid can alert you against AMD. Early detection of AMD is very vital for controlling it.

An Amsler Grid can be easily printed or you can watch it in your computer screen.

1) While looking at Amsler Grid, make sure that you wear your glasses if you have one.
2) Sit or stand about 15 inches away from the grid.
3) Look at the dark dot in the middle.
4) While focusing on the dark dot, you should be able to clearly see the lines.
5) If you see any missing lines or if they are blurred or wavy, immediately contact an ophthalmologist.
6) If there is no problem when you watched the grid with both eyes, repeat the exercise by closing one eye at a time. This is because AMD can affect one eye but the other eye makes up for it.