Guard Against Age-Related Macular Degeneration by Becoming Aware of the Symptoms

By Geralyn DiGiovanni, Manager, Client Services | January 4, 2016 |

Senior Care in Irvington, N.Y.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss or blindness among Americans who are 65 years old or older, according to our senior advisors at The Perfect Home Care, Inc., in Tarrytown.

So it’s important that seniors remain aware of symptoms. That way, in the event they become inflicted, they’ll be able to receive proper care for this disease. The main symptoms are:

· Dark, blurry areas in the center of vision

· Diminished or changed color perception

About 1.75 million Americans currently have advanced AMD. This number is expected to grow by the year 2020.The disease occurs when the small central portion of the retina, known as the macula, deteriorates. The retina is the light-sensing nerve tissue at the back of the eye. The disease develops as a person ages. That’s why it is often referred to as age-related macular degeneration.

Although AMD is almost never a totally blinding condition, it can be a source of significant visual disability, potentially impeding the ability to read and drive.

There are two forms of macular degeneration — wet and dry. Dry macular degeneration is an early stage of the disease and may be the result from aging or thinning of the macular tissues. No FDA approved treatments are available, although there are a few clinical trials being conducted. With wet macular degeneration, new blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak blood and fluid.

Prevention includes not smoking, exercising, and eating well. Vitamin supplements do not appear to be useful for prevention. The best defense against AMD is to visit an eye care professional at least once per year. If you have symptoms, you should schedule an immediate visit.

If you or an aging loved one are looking for senior care in Irvington, NY, call the friendly staff at The Perfect Home Care at (855) 855-5728. Call today!

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Geralyn DiGiovanni, Manager, Client Services

Manager, Client Services at The Perfect Home Care

Geralyn DiGiovanni has been marketing director of The Perfect Home Care since July, 2013. She’s responsible for promoting the agency by identifying and reaching out to market segments that align with the services offered by The Perfect Home Care. Among others, she works closely with geriatric care managers, elder care attorneys, and assisted living facilities. Her industry-specific experience includes multiple stints as a companion aide for seniors. She also has extensive experience in the publishing industry, where she worked as an account manager. “I love this industry and am passionate about working with seniors,” she says.

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