How to Help Someone With Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of low vision and blindness in older Americans. It is caused by degeneration of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. Loss of vision affects daily routines and leisure activities, and can cause anxiety and depression. Below are some things that family members and friends of people with macular degeneration can do to help.
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Instructions
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Communicate clearly. Give clear feedback and directions. A person with macular degeneration may not be able to read gestures or facial expressions. When you see him, identify yourself. Ask him what he can see and what he needs help with doing. Print notes clearly in large black letters.
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Help adapt his environment so that daily living is not so difficult. Ask what he is having trouble with and think of ways to make it easier. Install new lighting fixtures. Label stove and washing machine dials. Reprint or rewrite things in large type. Place colored tape on the edges of steps. Adjust computer browser settings to large type.
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Give low vision gifts like talking calculators, large-button phones and gadgets, and large print items. Give items that can encourage new hobbies, like books or newspapers on cassettes.
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Make the environment predictable. Frequently used items should be kept in special places and not moved around; and they always should be put back in these designated spots after they are picked up and used. If there are changes to the layout of a store or other establishment that he frequents, help to guide him through the changed surroundings.
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Offer help with writing checks, reading mail and other tasks, but don't just do it. Allow him to do as much for himself as he can.
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Be on the lookout for the signs of depression. Encourage him to take up new hobbies or join a support group or other group to keep active.
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Encourage him to take a vitamin supplement. There is evidence that Vitamins C and E, beta carotene, copper and zinc can slow down or halt the degeneration.
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