Accidental falls common with AMD patients

It is a serious and common problem among aging adults and they also have one of the highest injury-related mortality rates. The common health issues that affect majority of the elderly population are degenerative diseases like dementia, Alzheimer, osteoarthritis, Parkinson’s disease and eye diseases like age-related maculardegeneration (AMD).

AMD is an eye condition and a leading cause of vision loss among people aged 60 and above. It affects the macula of the retina causing damage to the part of the eye needed for sharp, central vision, which lets us see objects straight ahead and clearly.

Relationship between AMD and accidental falls

Age-related macular degeneration causes poor vision that has been associated with frequent accidental falls and at times leads to severe injuries. A recent study indicated that 74% of participants had either a fall or a non–fall–related injury. Among AMD patients, increased visual impairment was significantly associated with an increased incidence of falls and other injuries. AMD has also been associated with poor balance, difficulty with daily activities, smaller life space and poor quality of life - all of which are inter-related to falls and accidental falls.

“Age related macular degeneration as the name suggests is a degenerative disease mostly affecting people above 60 years of age. However due to unhealthy lifestyle and poor dietary habits it has started affecting the working population above 50 years of age. In Chennai, we see nearly 1500 patients in Retina clinic, nearly 50% have AMD. The prevalence of AMD is on rise, which is why, early diagnosis of AMD and regular treatment can prevent depression and fear of falling. This disease slowly leads to functional disability, and there is an increase need for the support from loved ones.” said Dr. Rajiv Raman, Senior Consultant VR Services atSankara Nethralaya.

It is advised that, timely detection and treatment of AMD can help in preventing fear of falling in the older patients. Hence, it is most important to seek medical intervention from a specialist like ophthalmologist. Also, a routine check-up is important in every 6 months.

Medicos say that family members should help patients become physically independent by creating a safe environment at home, while the strength and balance can be improved through exercises. The Vitreo-Retinal Society of India (VRSI), the apex body of retinologists in the country is going to observe Retina Day to help raise awareness about retinal diseases, recognize the symptoms early and seek medical treatment, to prevent blindness due to retinal diseases.

On this precious cause, Dr. Raja Narayanan, Secretary of VRSI said “The symptoms of retinal diseases like AMD are often misunderstood as signs of aging and therefore ignored and impact overall quality of life and lead to accidentally fall, unable to perform their routine activities without assistance from caregivers and as a result could suffer from depression. Retina Day will help to raise awareness, recognize symptoms early and seek medical treatment in order to prevent blindness due to retinal diseases”.