Age-related macular degeneration.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of legal blindness among older adults. Early recognition of AMD is important because treatment can enable patients to maintain central vision longer. Nurses who understand the effects of AMD can teach their elderly patients ways to slow its progression, such as increasing consumption of carotenoids in their diet, wearing ultraviolet protective lenses, and not smoke or drink to excess. They can also teach them coping strategies, such as use of low visual aids, and assist them in making necessary adjustments to daily living as long as possible.