how it feels at first
If you have been diagnosed with GA, it is normal to experience feelings of sadness and worry.
„The first thing I felt was complete devastation,“ said Jill Adelman of Turnersville, New Jersey. He has a GA and works to help people with vision loss through the Bright Focus Foundation.
For Adelman, learning to accept her GA diagnosis took time. „Fortunately, the changes I experienced were slow. The biggest struggle was coming to terms with my vision loss and the changes I was forced to accept with it,“ she says.
Dr. Matt Starr, an ophthalmologist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., says it's common for GA patients to remember loved ones who suffered vision loss. „I remind them that GA never leads to complete vision loss and many people can still live full lives. They need a little more help,“ he says. .
Facts about GA
If you have GA, you are considered legally blind, but people often misunderstand what legal blindness actually means. “GA does not turn off the illumination, but rather reduces the vision of central detail,” he says. Sam Dahr, MD, Director of the Retina Division at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston.
In addition to a blind spot in your central vision, you may notice decreased clarity or lack of vibrancy in colors. It may be difficult to see in dark places. Recognizing faces can be difficult. Daily activities such as driving, reading, crafts, and hobbies may become difficult.
Although the vision loss is permanent, GA does not affect your peripheral vision and you can continue to use your vision to see.
„Driving a car or reading may be limited, but you can usually walk around the house, go to a shopping mall or restaurant, exercise at a health club, and stay physically and socially active.“ ,” says Dahl.
Adaptations to improve your life
There are tools and technologies that can help you stay active and independent in GA.
A magnifying glass and high-quality lighting make it easier to see. Computers, tablets, and smartphones can help you navigate your home and surroundings, identify objects, and perform everyday tasks using voice commands.
„I've made many changes to my home and daily life to help myself,“ Adelman says. „I have special lighting. I always carry equipment like a magnifying glass and a flashlight. My electronic devices are displayed in large fonts with high contrast.“
If you love reading, try an electronic magnifier, large print books, or audiobooks. If you love to cook, you can safely become more independent in the kitchen by making small changes like using a light or dark cutting board for contrast or putting light-colored tape on your measuring cup. can.
Reasons to be optimistic
When living with GA, there are many devices to choose from. And experts say further advances are likely to come soon.
Many organizations are looking for GA solutions because GA affects millions of people. „Government research institutions and private companies are pouring resources into drug therapy research,“ Dahl said. Medical device companies are coming up with new innovations and technologies to help them expand.
„This is one of the most intense areas of medical research,“ Starr said, adding that he was optimistic about the future.
Resources for a fulfilling life
In the meantime, try these resources to help manage GA:
Specialist in retina and low vision. “Retinal specialists are important partners,” says Dahl. At least once or twice a year he should make an appointment with a specialist. They can check your condition and tell you if new treatments are available. Working with a low vision specialist can help you make the most of what vision you still have.
Amblyopia or visual rehabilitation institution. Contact your local nonprofit or state agency. We may offer amblyopia evaluations, occupational therapy programs, and support groups. You may also qualify for aids to help with low vision, such as electronic devices, lamps, and reading aids.
support group. Joining a GA support group can help you connect with people who understand what it's like to live with GA and can provide support and suggestions to help you cope with the changes in your life.
your social network. Connecting with family and friends may reduce feelings of loneliness. Your support network can also help you with practical things like getting around, cooking, cleaning, and streamlining your daily routine so you can live more independently.
exercise. Staying active can help manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. Ask your doctor to recommend a fitness routine that makes sense to you.