Living with Geographic Atrophy (GA), an advanced form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

1. Monitor vision and communicate changes

Keep track of any changes to your vision, for example, make a note if you start to have trouble reading or driving.

You can use the Amsler grid to help you easily monitor your vision at home.

2. Communicate openly and honestly

Changes in your vision could mean that your GA is getting worse or that you may have developed another eye condition. If you detect any changes, it is important to talk to your ophthalmologist or optometrist as soon as possible. This will help them to better monitor your condition or treat any newly developed condition.

3. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Let your ophthalmologist or optometrist know how the changes to your vision are affecting your life and ask for any available resources, including patient organisations that can support you.

Read on to learn about aids designed to help you manage your condition. You can also explore the Resources section of the site for further support.

Talking to your loved ones

If your loved one is experiencing vision changes

You can also visit the Macular Society for further advice on how to support a loved one suffering from vision loss.

Managing your condition

Regular monitoring

Attending recommended eye exams is an essential part of managing geographic atrophy as it allows your ophthalmologist or optometrist to monitor your condition and detect any early changes to your eyes.

It is also important to use the Amsler grid to monitor your vision at home. If you notice any changes, such as sections of the grid appearing blurry or wavy, tell your ophthalmologist or optometrist straight away.

Lifestyle changes 

Here are some things you can do that may help prevent or slow the progression of your condition:^2,3  

• Exercise regularly
• Quit smoking
• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables

Navigating changes in your vision 

If you are experiencing changes in your vision due to geographic atrophy, you don't need to be worried about continuing to do the things you enjoy. You may need to start using some new tools to help you comfortably do these things and to continue to live as independently as possible.

Ask your ophthalmologist or optometrist to recommend a visual rehabilitation specialist who can help you start using some aids to navigate your changed vision.

You might benefit from the following aids:

• Magnifying devices or electronic aids for reading
• Increasing font size for newspapers, magazines and books
• Telescopic lenses for distance
• Use brighter or extra lighting and adjusting contrast

Life at home with geographic atrophy 

There are many ways you can improve your living space to help you adapt to your changing vision as your GA progresses.

Lighting: The lighting in your home should be bright and even throughout.

• Place several lights around each room so all parts of the room are visible
• Open curtains to take advantage of natural daylight
• Keep stairs and hallways well-lit and free of rugs and clutter to help prevent falls
• Use extra lighting when you need to focus on things like reading and cooking

Food and cooking: There are several precautions you can take in the kitchen.

• Use different colours to make household appliances and utensils stand out
• Mark your most used settings on appliances with raised stickers
• Use a liquid level indicator to let you know when liquid reaches near the top of your cup
• Label important items in large print

Technology: Many electronic devices have features that make them easier to use.

• Make use of settings to increase text size, colour, brightness or magnification
• Install screen reading and speech-to-text software to help read and write text for you
• Use smart devices with built-in voice assistants, which can respond to various commands, such as playing audiobooks, music or podcasts

You can find additional advice and tips from the Macular Society on how to cope with routine tasks and change your living space to help you manage GA and continue leading a fulfilling life.

Out and about

Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses with UV filters or blue blocking lenses to protect from glare and ultraviolet light. Find out more here.

Consider carrying a symbol cane: It can be very helpful to use a cane as it allows you to detect obstacles in your path and lets others know that you have a visual impairment.

Crossing the road:

• Many pedestrian crossings are designed for those with vision impairments, for example, some make a bleeping noise to indicate it is safe to cross
• Ask your ophthalmologist or optometrist or local patient organisation to find out more

Shopping:

• Try shopping at a quieter time of day so it's easier to move around
• Consider making use of online delivery services; most shopping websites and apps are very accessible

Eating out:

• Adjust the environment, like having items removed from the table, to make it easier to see plates, glasses, condiments, etc.
• Look at the menu online beforehand or ask a member of staff to help you

Driving: Having GA does not automatically mean you have to stop driving. However, if you are diagnosed with it in both eyes, you must inform the national driving authority and your insurance company. Read further guidance here.

Travelling:

• Many travel services offer discounted prices for those registered as sight impaired
• Discuss your condition with your travel agent or airline before booking your holiday or flying to see what support is available

Further detailed advice on how to go out and about safely can be found at the Macular Society here.

Staying active with geographic atrophy

Having GA does not prevent you from leading an active lifestyle – there are many activities you can continue to do. Some might require modifications, while others can be done with minimal to no assistance, such as yoga and tai chi.

Here are some tips on staying active after being diagnosed or experiencing changes to your vision.

• Exercise with a friend as a workout buddy can be a safety guide for you when starting out
• Find a fitness instructor who can work with you individually to create a safe exercise programme based on your needs
• Modify equipment using labels in Braille or with large print or tactile markings

Taking care of your mental well-being

For some, vision changes can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety and loss of independence. If you experience any of these symptoms, try some of the following tips, and know that help is available.

Stay connected with friends and family to keep yourself from feeling isolated. Over time, you can find new ways to do the things you love or discover new hobbies that bring you joy.

Try relaxation methods, such as meditation, mindfulness and therapy, as they can help you with stress management and general well-being.

Seek support from your doctors, and from patient organisations and groups where you can connect with others also living with GA. These groups can help you learn about your condition, share your experience, provide support, and help you adapt to living with the vision you have.