ONE in five people over the age of 50 are still not heeding the call to action to have their eyes tested and macula checked
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This is despite 85 per cent being aware of macular degeneration.
Optometrist Lara Foster at Eyecare Plus in Moss Vale is supporting the Macular Disease Foundation Australia in urging local residents at risk to see their local optometrist and take control of their eye health this Macular Degeneration Awareness Week from May 24 to 30.
She said risk factors for the condition included being over the age of 50, a direct family history and smoking.
Macular Degeneration is Australia’s leading cause of severe vision loss and blindness. It affects more than 1.15 million Australians over 50 and without appropriate prevention and treatment measures, this number is set to increase to 1.7 million by 2030.
“Finding out is as easy as visiting your local optometrist for an eye test and macula check,” she said.
“The very early signs of macular degeneration can now be identified easily by modern technology which enables the optometrist to see the retina at the back of the eye, where the disease develops, and detect early signs of the disease.”
Macular Disease Foundation Australia CEO Julie Heraghty said that dismissing symptoms and not seeking advice risked blindness.
“Clearly awareness of macular degeneration is not enough,” she said.
“Testing is essential and symptom recognition is critical to saving sight.”
The symptoms include one or more of the following:
- • Difficulty with reading or any other activity with fine vision
- • Distortion where straight lines appear wavy or bent
- • Distinguishing faces becomes a problem
- • Dark patches or empty spaces appear in the centre of your vision.
“Macular degeneration is a chronic disease requiring early detection and diagnosis, Ms Heraghty said.
“In the case of the wet form it can progress very quickly and requires urgent treatment to save sight.
“All Australians over 50 should have a regular eye test and macula check, and monitor for any changes in vision between visits to their optometrist.”
Along with having an eye test and macula check Australians over 50 should incorporate the good eye health practises of diet and lifestyle into their everyday routines.
Eat dark green leafy vegetables. fresh fruit and fish.
Consideration should also be given to an appropriate supplement in consultation with your doctor.
Quitting smoking is also critical.
For more information call the Macular Disease Foundation Australia on 1800 111 709 or visit www.mdfoundation.com.au
