The common eye condition known as macular degeneration, which mainly affects seniors, results in a loss of vision in the center of the visual field. Although receiving a diagnosis might be frightening, seniors can effectively manage their health and retain a high quality of life with the correct in-home care assistance and support from their loved ones.
Understanding Macular Degeneration
The macula, the core region of the retina responsible for the sharp, crisp vision that is present in younger years, is the target of macular degeneration. There are two varieties of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), one more common than the other. Wet AMD is less prevalent but can result in rapid visual loss, while dry AMD is more common and advances more slowly.
Tips for Managing Macular Degeneration
Seniors with in-home care assistance benefit from having someone by their side to remind them to make and keep eye appointments. This is significant, as continuous observation of the condition is necessary to effectively manage it.
Frequent eye exams allow for prompt therapy modifications and help in monitoring the condition’s progression. Seniors should make an appointment for eye exams annually, or more frequently if their eye care professional recommends it.
Beyond maintaining consistency with eye appointments, other tips for helping to manage macular degeneration include the following:
Focus on Diet
Eating a diet high in fruits, nuts, seafood, and leafy greens can help maintain eye health. Foods like kale, spinach, salmon, walnuts, and omega-3 fatty acids that are rich in antioxidants and zinc should be a priority. A medical professional may also suggest supplements like AREDS2, which combines vitamins C and E with zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin.
Assistive Devices
Large print books, reading lamps, and magnifying glasses can all help with daily tasks. Additionally, voice-activated technologies and customized text sizes are additional useful features of digital devices. Encouraging seniors to use these technologies can help them maintain optimum eye health.
Vision Rehabilitation
Seniors enrolled in vision restoration programs learn how to maximize their residual vision. These courses may cover adaptable daily tasks, best practices for using assistive technology, and training in the use of peripheral vision. With in-home care services by their side, seniors can practice the lessons they learn in these programs to ensure the best results.
Maintaining an Active Social Life
Social connection and physical activity are essential for general well-being. It is important to encourage seniors to engage in activities they find enjoyable, such as book clubs, group fitness classes, or get-togethers with loved ones. Remaining in contact can help avoid the emotions of loneliness that vision loss can bring on.
Emotional Support
Receiving a macular degeneration diagnosis can be emotionally taxing. Seniors who want to learn coping mechanisms and have a safe environment to vent their feelings can join counseling or support groups. At the same time, seniors with in-home care assistance and the support of loved ones can benefit from the patience and care they offer.
Helping seniors manage a macular degeneration diagnosis takes patience, support, and care. It’s important for them to feel supported by loved ones and in-home care, as well as feel free to process their emotions and concerns.
If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Care in New Berlin, WI, please contact the caring staff at Talem Home Care & Placement Services today. Call (414) 206-2090
At Talem Home Care of Milwaukee, we provide passionate, understanding, and flexible caregivers in Brookfield, Cudahy, Delafield, Franklin, Greendale, Greenfield, Hales Corners, Milwaukee, Mukwonago, Muskego, New Berlin, Oak Creek, Oconomowoc, Pewaukee, Shorewood, South Milwaukee, Waukesha, Wauwatosa, West Allis and surrounding areas in Wisconsin.
Sources:
- https://www.beebehealthcare.org/health-hub/caring-someone-macular-degeneration
- https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/macular-degeneration/caregiving-for-amd
- https://homewithyou.com/macular-degeneration-diagnosis-means-for-your-loved-one/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/living-with-macular-degeneration
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