Coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration

The sudden stress that even the smallest amounts of vision loss impose on people can feel crushing. Education and knowledge about the best strategies and tools to regain your independence is vital. Here are some tips for coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration:

Coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration in Bellflower

Stay informed about AMD

It is important to understand your condition and know what to expect as it progresses. Our low vision optometrist can provide you with information about your specific case, what are some of the challenges that may occur and why, and help you understand your options for improving your vision and managing your condition. 

There is nothing more traumatic than sudden changes in vision, it is important to fully understand the changes and how to best live with them. 

Use low vision devices for AMD

There are many low vision devices that are available that can help you see better and perform daily activities with greater ease. These may include magnifiers, special glasses, filtered lenses, and adaptive computer software. Our low vision optometrist and therapist can help you choose the right aids for your needs.

Seek support from government, non-profit, and medical resources

Coping with vision loss can be emotionally and physically challenging. It is important to seek support from friends, family, and support groups. Our eye doctor may also be able to refer you to a counselor or support group in your area. Having the support from a low vision optometrist is an important member of your care team.. 

Stay active

Regular physical activity can help you maintain your physical and mental health. It is important to find activities that you enjoy and that are within your capabilities.

Make your home and workplace accessible

There are many changes you can make to your home and workplace to make them more accessible and safe. These may include installing bright lighting, using contrasting colors, and removing tripping hazards. Our eye doctor or a low vision rehabilitation specialist can provide you with more specific recommendations. 

Keep a healthy lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you manage your condition and reduce your risk of other health problems. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, and managing any chronic conditions you may have.

If you or a loved one is coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration, it is important to work closely with our low vision optometrist. Our low vision optometrist can provide you with the necessary care and support to manage your condition and maintain your quality of life. To schedule a low vision exam, please call (562) 925-6591.

Amplify Eyecare of Greater Long Beach

Understand how macular degeneration will impact your vision

As a low vision optometrist, it's important to understand the different stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and the associated symptoms.

Early-stage dry AMD typically has no noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, the following symptoms may develop:

  • Difficulty reading or performing tasks that require fine vision
  • Need for brighter light when reading or doing close-up work
  • Blurriness in the central vision, especially when reading or looking at fine details
  • Decreased contrast sensitivity
  • Decreased ability to adapt to changes in lighting 
  • Difficulty with glare sensitivity
  • Difficulty seeing in low light conditions
  • Need for frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions
  • Difficulty recognizing faces
  • Colors may appear less vivid
  • Decreased ability to see fine detail

In intermediate-stage dry AMD, some people may still have no symptoms, but others may experience the following:

  • Blurriness in the central vision that is more noticeable
  • Difficulty reading and performing daily tasks
  • Need for brighter light and increased contrast when reading or doing close-up work
  • Distorted or wavy vision, especially when looking at straight lines
  • Blind spots or scotomas in the central vision
  • Difficulty with low light situations
  • Need for increased magnification when reading
  • Difficulty adjusting to changes in light levels
  • Blurriness in the central vision that is more noticeable
  • Increased sensitivity to glare and bright lights
  • Harder to recognize faces or people's facial expressions

Late-stage dry AMD can cause severe vision loss and the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty with activities of daily living, such as driving or cooking
  • Seeing black or gray spots in the central vision
  • Hallucinations or illusions, such as seeing shapes or people that aren't there
  • Distorted perception of size and distance
  • Blind spots or missing areas in the central vision
  • Difficulty recognizing faces
  • Difficulty reading 
  • Need for brighter light and increased contrast
  • Decreased ability to see colors
  • Complete loss of central vision

It's important to note that the symptoms of wet AMD, a less common and more severe form of the disease, can progress rapidly and lead to sudden vision loss. If you experience any sudden changes in your vision, it's crucial to seek prompt medical attention.

What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a condition that affects the macula, a small area located in the center of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. It is a common cause of vision loss, particularly in individuals over the age of 50. When the macula begins to deteriorate, it can lead to a loss of central vision and make it difficult to see fine details. There is no cure for macular degeneration, but there are steps that can be taken to slow its progression and manage its symptoms.

What is Macular Degeneration?
How Macular Degeneration Affects Your Sight: Symptoms You Need to Know

How Macular Degeneration Affects Your Sight: Symptoms You Need to Know

Are you experiencing any changes in your vision, such as blurriness or distortion? Are you having difficulty reading or performing tasks that require fine vision? Are you noticing a decreased ability to see colors accurately, or a dark or empty area in your central field of vision? Do straight lines appear wavy or distorted to you? If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be suffering from macular degeneration.

It is crucial to see our qualified eye doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can help to preserve your vision and maintain overall eye health. Don't hesitate, call (562) 925-6591 today to schedule a low vision exam.

How Macular Degeneration Affects Your Sight: Symptoms You Need to Know

How Can I Find a Low Vision Optometrist Near Me?

If you are searching for a low vision optometrist, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced professional. Simply search for "low vision eye doctor near me" or "low vision optometrist near me" to find a list of professionals in your area. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family, or consult with your primary care doctor for a referral.

Common Questions

While there is no sure way to prevent macular degeneration, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include not smoking, maintaining a healthy diet and blood pressure, and wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV radiation. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with macular degeneration, call us to schedule an evaluation today at (562) 925-6591. We are proud to be a leading provider of advanced eye care for patients with macular degeneration from Bellflower, Long Beach, Lakewood, and Los Angeles.
The treatment options for macular degeneration depend on the stage and severity of the condition. Your retina specialist and low vision optometrist can work together to provide you with the best treatment and care plan. Our low vision optometrist can guide you on your available options and provide you with information and explanations. Your treatment may include medications, such as antioxidants and anti-VEGF drugs, as well as low vision devices, such as magnifiers and special glasses. The key is to be fully educated and prepared while maximizing your remaining vision. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with macular degeneration, call us to schedule an evaluation today at (562) 925-6591. We are proud to be a leading provider of advanced eye care for patients from Bellflower, Long Beach, Lakewood, and Los Angeles.
Coping with vision loss due to macular degeneration
Dr. Ikeda cartoon

Find a low vision doctor near you in (562) 925-6591 for macular degeneration

If you or a loved one is experiencing vision loss due to macular degeneration, don't wait to seek help. A low vision eye exam with our low vision optometrist near you can help to diagnose and manage your condition and maximize your remaining vision. Don't let macular degeneration hold you back, take control of your vision and call (562) 925-6591 today to schedule an appointment. Patients with macular degeneration visit our clinic from all over California, and we are proud to be a leading provider of low vision eye care services for macular degeneration patients from Bellflower, Long Beach, Lakewood, and Los Angeles.

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Testimonials


I haven't actually used the optometrist side, so my review is limited to the vision therapy offered.  This office was recommended by my occupational therapist for the treatment of my double vision following a stroke.


Claire A.

Love this location. I had a brain injury accident from day one one. All the team make you feel you still important and hope in the horizon after when the medical system fell you miserably. Dr. Ikeda very professional and very understanding about your issue. Two tombs up.


Jim K.

My husband and I were immediately impressed with Dr Ikeda. I was hit by a car while cycling which caused broken bones and three brain injuries. The brain injuries caused double vision. Dr. Ikeda examined my eyes and got me started on vision therapy with his occupational therapist who specializes in vision therapy.  She (Chris) is absolutely great.  I am impressed with the array of tools used to help recover my binocular vision.  I am doing things I never thought were possible (balance boards etc).  Chris pushes me and keeps me motivated. I really enjoy my sessions with her.  The office staff is always friendly and they have a wonderful appointment reminder tool that makes it easy to keep my calendar up to date. I am happy the rehab center at Little Co. of Mary recommended them!!


Teresa S.

The Vision Therapy is handled in a separate office through a different door from the shared waiting room. Chris, the vision therapist, has a wide and varied assortment of tools, equipment and resources to best evaluate and treat most vision issues. After just a few visits, my double vision became easier to control, using exercises developed during the therapy process. It was time well-spent.


Joe M.

I have been coming here since I can remember. I love it here. The staff is so amazing and nice. They explain everything they gonna do and never make you feel rushed. Dr. Ikeda has always been my doctor and I would never want another one. He is the doctor for my whole family and is always asking how everyone is doing. I am also so crazy about picking out my frames and have to try so many and each person who helps me take the time and lets me try them all on. I would never want to go anywhere else! I definitely would recommend this office to anyone looking for a great eye doctor.


Kayla W.

This is not for the eye exam but for the frames selection portion. I brought my prescription from Kaiser here with my VSP insurance. The reception staff was very polite and professional.  Manny helped me to pick out frames and explain my coverage.  Very helpful and patient not like the individual at the other place I rated here on Yelp.  I was running late and he still helped me and was not bothered at all.  I am so glad I came here ..........very pleased.

Very professional staff and pleasant.


Daniel G.
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