Home Living With AMD Don’t become discouraged! Millions of people have AMD and most succeed despite the challenges they face. The more you understand about what helps you to see better, the more independent you will remain. The peripheral vision you retain can be used very effectively. If you are losing sight, there are some simple things you can do on your own. There are devices and techniques for everything from reading to cooking to watching sports on TV. You may have to stop driving at some point, but for almost everything, there is a solution. Controlling your risk factors and living a healthy lifestyle may slow the progression of AMD and may help you to take charge of your situation. Eat Healthy What you eat can make a difference in AMD. While no diet can reverse vision loss, multiple studies confirm that a Mediterranean-style diet may slow the progression of disease. Read more. Vitamins & Supplements Beware of companies that claim to have a ‘cure’ or a vitamin supplement to reverse AMD. There is no research to support this kind of miracle. If you have intermediate AMD, your doctor may recommend taking a supplement based on the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), a 10 year project involving 3,500 seniors. Read more. Exercise Exercise is one thing you can do that can improve your eye health and overall well-being. Studies have shown that physically active individuals have a lower rate of wet AMD than similar individuals who are sedentary. Read more. Sunglasses – protect yourself outdoors Ultraviolet light and blue light can damage your retina and increase your chances of advancing the effects of AMD. Remember to always protect your eyes when you are out of doors. Read more. Lighting – make your home vision friendly You’ve probably noticed that you see better in some lighting situations than others. Just changing a lightbulb may make a difference. Create environments that provide the best opportunity for you to see well. Read more. Low Vision Rehabilitation Your eye doctor can make a referral to a low vision specialist or optometrist who works with AMD patients. These experts can introduce you to adaptive devices that will make the most of your remaining vision, and show you technology that can help you to stay in touch with the world. Read more. Stay Positive – Avoid Depression Depression is a well-known consequence of AMD. Staying active will keep you positive. Learn the symptoms of depression and take action if you find you are becoming isolated because of your AMD. Read more. For Family & Caregivers The effects of vision loss touch many lives. Family members and friends worry about your welfare. Talk to them about the challenges of AMD and let them offer their assistance. Read more.