Macular degeneration, also called age-related macular degeneration or AMD, affects the macula — the small central part of the retina that gives you sharp, detailed vision for reading, driving, and recognizing faces. It is more common after age 55, and it often develops slowly. Many people in Edmonton notice no symptoms in the early stages, which is why regular eye exams matter as you get older.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
The macula sits at the back of the eye and helps you see fine detail straight ahead. When it becomes damaged, central vision can become blurry or distorted, while side vision often stays clearer. There are two main forms. Dry macular degeneration is the more common form and usually progresses gradually. Wet macular degeneration is less common but can change vision more quickly when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak. An eye exam can help identify early changes in the macula, sometimes before you notice a difference in your day-to-day vision.
Signs to Watch For After 55
Early macular degeneration may have no clear signs, but as it progresses you may notice blurry or fuzzy central vision, difficulty reading even with your glasses on, or needing brighter light for close work. Straight lines, such as door frames, lines of text, or grid patterns, may look wavy or bent. Colours may seem less vivid, and you may notice a dark, blurry, or empty area in the centre of your vision. Faces may become harder to recognize. If you notice a sudden change — especially distortion or a new dark spot in one eye — contact an eye clinic promptly for advice, as quicker changes should be checked sooner rather than waiting for your next routine visit.
Who Is More Likely to Develop It?
Age is the strongest factor, and risk rises after 55 and again after 65. A family history of macular degeneration can also increase risk. Smoking is linked to a higher risk and to faster progression, so quitting is one practical step many people discuss with their care team. Long-term sun exposure, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular health may also play a role. Having risk factors does not mean you will develop AMD, and many people with early changes keep useful vision for years, especially with regular monitoring.
How Eye Exams Help in Mill Woods
During a comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist can look at the retina and macula, check your vision and prescription, and use additional tests or imaging when needed to look more closely at the back of the eye. If early signs are found, the plan may include monitoring at regular intervals, guidance on lifestyle factors, and referral to a specialist if treatment or closer follow-up is appropriate. At Infinite Eyecare in Mill Woods, Edmonton, we provide eye exams for adults and seniors, and we offer direct billing to most major insurers. Eye exams for seniors are covered by Alberta Health Care, and eye exams for children under 19 are also covered by Alberta Health Care.
What You Can Do Day to Day
Protecting your overall health supports your eye health too. Do not smoke, or seek support to quit if you do. Wear sunglasses that block UV light on bright days, including in winter when snow reflects sunlight. Eat a balanced diet with leafy green vegetables, colourful fruits, and fish, and stay active as your health allows. Keep up with regular eye exams even when your vision feels fine, and let your clinic know promptly if you notice new distortion, blur, or a dark spot in your central vision.
Book an Eye Exam in Edmonton
If you are over 55 and it has been a while since your last eye exam, or you have noticed changes in your central vision, book an appointment to have your eyes and macula checked. Infinite Eyecare is located at 4275 23 Ave NW, Mill Woods, Edmonton. Call us at 780-425-0003 to book your eye exam.
