Degeneration of macular area (center area) of retina [center of greatest visual acuity] Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)= leading cause of legal blindness

• Risk may be reduced w/diet high in Omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, and zeoxanthin

2 types:

• Atrophic (Dry)
• Exudative (Wet)

S/s:

• Loss of central vision but peripheral vision remains intact
• Appearance of pale yellow spots on macula (Drussen)
• Visual distortion
• Difficulty w/activities requiring focus ad close central vision

Treatment:

• NO treatment for DRY macular...but progress may be slowed w/high dose antioxidants & zinc
• PREVENT FALLS