Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the largest cause of sight loss in the UK, with over 300 people diagnosed every day. For most, there is no treatment, but improving lighting around the home can help almost everyone with AMD to continue reading, watching TV or pursuing hobbies for longer.

Support for you today – our partnership with the Macular Society

However, it can be difficult to adjust to life with sight loss which is why we’re delighted to be working with the Macular Society to tell you about some of the other support available to help you in your everyday life. This includes the Macular Society’s Advice and Information Service where a friendly team of trained staff can help with anything from providing you with some helpful information about your condition to recommending a local support group or troubleshooting your smartphone or e-reader problems. They can even make a referral for free telephone counselling if you are struggling with your sight loss. Here’s how Jean described her experience:

“I feel so much better having spoken to the counselling service. Before this I was newly diagnosed with macular disease, I was experiencing hallucinations. I didn't know what was going on. I had days when I didn't want to carry on. Understanding my condition and talking things through has made all the difference.”

You can contact the Macular Society’s Advice and Information Service on 0300 3030 111 or email help@macularsociety.org.

Hope for the future – the Macular Disease Conference 2021

The Macular Society is holding a FREE virtual conference on 11th September. It’s a great way to find out more about macular disease, the support available and hope for the future so why not register today! Here’s what you can expect:

1. All the information, expert advice and support you need to understand and live your best life with a macular condition.
   
2. The very latest in treatments and cutting-edge research.
   
3. A chance to put your questions to leading experts in live Q&As.
   
4. Tailored sessions for people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and for those with inherited retinal diseases and of working age.
   
5. A new session for those newly diagnosed, friends and family.
   

Here’s how one person described last year’s conference:

“A brilliant mix of facts and coping tips, I found the event uplifting and I am a lot more confident. I had not felt I had the support from my hospital with regard to living with loss of central vision, but this event has given me a new lease of life.”

You can see the full programme and register for free at www.macularsociety.org/MDconference2021.