Top Tip to Help Preserve Vision in Macular Degeneration

When Elliot Portman, a 65-year-old trial attorney from Long Island, NY, was diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), he wasn’t surprised. His father had it too and had warned him early on to get regular eye exams. “I’m grateful to my dad and glad I was smart enough to listen,” Portman said.

That advice likely saved Portman’s eyesight.

Why Regular Eye Exams Matter Most

If there’s one thing you can do to preserve your vision with AMD, it’s this:

Get regular eye exams especially if you’re over 40.

“Macular degeneration can develop before you even notice symptoms,” says Yu Hyon Kim, MD, ophthalmologist at Montefiore Health System in New York City. “The most important thing people can do is keep up with regular exams and follow-up appointments.”

Recommended Eye Exam Schedule

(American Academy of Ophthalmology guidelines):

• Ages 40–54: Every 2–4 years

• Ages 55–64: Every 1–3 years

• Ages 65+: Every 1–2 years

• Earlier or more frequent if you have symptoms or a family history

Routine exams include a retinal check, which can detect early AMD even before your vision is affected.

Understanding AMD: Two Main Types

Age-related macular degeneration affects the macula, the part of your retina responsible for sharp, central vision. AMD doesn't cause complete blindness but can severely affect your ability to read, drive, or recognize faces.

1. Dry AMD

• Most common form (80–90% of cases)

• Progresses slowly over time

• Can affect one or both eyes

• May lead to wet AMD in some cases

2. Wet AMD

• Less common, more severe

• Caused by abnormal blood vessels leaking fluid under the retina

• Can lead to rapid central vision loss if untreated

• Portman developed this form in his early 50s and now relies on audio GPS while driving

Symptoms of AMD include:

• Blurry or fuzzy vision

• Difficulty recognizing familiar faces

• Straight lines appearing wavy

• A central dark or gray spot in your vision

Treatment Options for AMD

While there’s no cure for AMD, early detection allows for intervention that can slow or even stabilize vision loss.

For Dry AMD:

• AREDS supplements (vitamins C, E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin) may slow disease progression

• Low-vision tools such as magnifiers, text-to-speech apps, or AR visors can enhance quality of life

For Wet AMD:

• Anti-VEGF injections are the standard treatment

  1. These medications help block abnormal blood vessel growth

  2. Injections are typically given every few weeks

  3. Most patients report the treatment is quick and painless

  4. Some may experience temporary dryness, eased with saline drops

“At first, I couldn’t imagine a needle in my eye,” Portman shared. “Now I just come to the appointment, have the treatment, and go back to what I was doing.”

He’s now going longer between injections a sign that his vision is stabilizing.

Final Takeaway

If macular degeneration runs in your family or you're simply getting older don't wait for symptoms to start.
Schedule an eye exam and follow your doctor’s advice on frequency.

Catching AMD early can help preserve your sight and your independence.

Over 19 million U.S. adults have some form of AMD.2 Early detection through eye exams is your best chance at slowing its progression.

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