New to the Community

I am a 86 year-old female, diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) - wet kind. I received my diagnosis about 15 months ago.

Challenges at work

It has become a challenge for me to work. For the past 50+ years, I have worked in accounting. I help Shut-in's get their Income Tax Returns prepared. The stress has an effect on many sleepless nights due to having to make adjustments for my “good days and not so good”. Sometimes I experience increases in blood pressure also increased low vision.

Treating my AMD with injections

Following 6 injections of Ilea, my right eye finally tested 20/30 and the black spot had turned gray. On the same day, my Retinologist told me the AMD had gone into my left eye!!!! He gave me a Vabysmo injection, which accidentally hit a tiny blood vessel. This scared me! I had other medical problems that prevented me from following up with the protocol of having an injection once a month for 3 months. It was MY choice to not have injections for 6 months!!!

Being proactive when symptoms worsen

During this long break from injections, I feel like I should have called my Retinologist sooner. My vision for READING only began to get worse. Thanks to this AMD site; with the stories of other AMD patients AND the in home work with Totally blind and the experience of my 92 y/o client that shared her entire AMD JOURNEY, I am currently starting my injections in what I’ve been calling my "good eye”.

Starting to make small changes

These are the following things that I have learned to help navigate the future. Start making the living space Safer by having NO extra rugs. I use hand grips in all areas where I need to stand on one foot, like in the showers, tubs, and on steps. On my iPad, I expanded the font. My Alexa can turn lights on & off and increase luminaires, as necessary. I’m practicing making meals in the micro and deliveries, listening more carefully, and paying more attention.

Making connections with macular degeneration

Socializing is of utmost importance. Sharing with family and friends what the process is….. they need to be educated on what AMD patients are experiencing……..this is a hereditary disease! Thank you to all that have shared their stories.

P.S. I still have very good distance and peripheral vision, but remain very cautious on depth perception. I do not drive at night or in dimly lit areas.