Driving with Macular Degeneration – Customized Bioptic Telescope Glasses
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease of the retina. End-Stage AMD is the most advanced form of the disease and the leading cause of irreversible vision loss and legal blindness in individuals over the age of 65.
In early, less advanced Macular Degeneration, visual symptoms are generally mild and may or may not impact vision-related activities. However, advanced stages of AMD can result in severe loss of sight in the central part of vision. This is often referred to as a central vision “blind spot.” This blind spot is different than the visual disturbances experienced with cataracts (clouding of the eye’s lens) and is not correctable by cataract surgery or eyeglasses. Side vision, or peripheral vision, is not affected by AMD, but is too low resolution to make up for lost central vision. At this time, there is no cure for End-Stage AMD and no way to reverse its effects.
Life with Macular Degeneration – The main symptoms of the disease include loss of central vision while the peripheral vision remains intact. On examination, there are characteristic yellowish flecks in and under the macula of the patient’s eye that may be extending in a ring-like fashion.
This results in disturbed vision and related complications resulting in life changing issues for the patient. E.g. they can’t read properly and thus affects their study and job, they can’t obtain a drivers license and even can’t enjoy the life to the fullest if not managed and helped properly.
Along with disturbed vision, there is also a decrease in the perception of color in the patients. This added with vision loss is one of the main reasons why patients are not able to drive once they develop the disease.
– Customized bioptic telescope glasses are designed for each individual, at the proper magnification and precise prescription. They are helpful in enhancing the distant vision for the patients with severely impaired eyesight, and are helpful for patients with Macular Degeneration, even if they have reached the extent of legal blindness.
Customized bioptic telescope glasses are able to help legally blind people pass a driving test and drive again. “Our job is to figure out anything and everything possible to keep a person functioning,” says Dr. Thomas Azman, OD. “Whether it’s driving, reading, watching television, seeing faces, playing bridge… we work with whatever is on the persons “wish list,” even if it’s driving.”
Maryland and California are two of many states that allow the use of customized bioptic telescope glasses for driving. Bioptic telescopic glasses are prescribed to read signs and see traffic lights farther away. Customized microscopes reading glasses also help patients to be able to read the morning paper and watch television.
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At Low Vision Specialists of MD & VA we strive to provide our patients with the highest level of care, improved functional vision, and most importantly a better quality of life. If you or someone you care about is struggling with vision loss, there is hope. Legally blind and driving with Stargardt’s Disease is an option!