February is not only the month of hearts, but the month of eyes, as well — National Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Low Vision Awareness Month. That’s quite a mouthful (or eyeful), so let’s explore these conditions. 

What is age-related macular degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive disease that causes blurry, distorted vision by affecting the macula, which is a tiny dark spot at the back of the eye. It’s the leading cause of central vision loss in Americans ages 50 and older.

There are two main types of AMD: dry and wet. Dry AMD occurs when degenerative proteins, also called drusen, deposit themselves inside the retina. In wet AMD, the more serious of the two conditions, blood vessels behind the retina begin to leak blood and other fluids. Both occur in the later stages of the disease.

You can reduce your risks for AMD if you:

• Quit smoking
• Manage your blood pressure
• Maintain a healthy weight

What is low vision?

The National Eye Institute explains that low vision is a visual impairment that cannot be fixed by glasses, medicine, surgery or contact lenses. Signs of low vision can include difficulty:

• Reading, cooking or doing things around the house
• Recognizing friends and family members’ faces
• Seeing clearly even with the lights on
• Matching colors
• Reading signs for roads and stores while driving

If you or your loved one is affected by AMD or low vision, call ComForCare/At Your Side Home Care today. Our in-home caregivers can help with vision needs such as checking the small-print expiration dates on food or reading the newspaper aloud. It’s just one of the 50 ways we can help.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published Feb. 25, 2016. It has been revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.