In an age-related eye disease study, people with moderate and advanced age-related macular degeneration were shown to have a significant benefit with regard to disease progression by taking dietary supplements containing high-dose antioxidants and zinc.
Smoking cessation is recommended for everyone in order to prevent or slow down progression of retinal disease.
People with advanced age-related macular degeneration may benefit from low-vision aids.
Handheld magnifiers for reading
Telescopes to see into the distance
Talking watches
Computers that talk or that use large type faces
People should be encouraged to use the remaining peripheral vision that is unaffected by the macular degeneration.
A useful test that may indicate macular problems or worsening of age-related macular degeneration is the Amsler grid.
The Amsler grid consists of a square grid with a dark dot in the middle.
Broken or distorted lines or a blurred or missing area of vision could be one of the first signs of age-related macular degeneration.
The grid also helps to monitor changes in vision once changes have been detected.
The Macular Degeneration Partnership offers a self-test online with the Amsler grid.