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How to Adjust Your Prescription as Macular Degeneration Develops

senior man with macular degeneration

For individuals with macular degeneration, changes in vision can be frustrating. Blurry text, difficulty recognizing faces, and increased sensitivity to glare often make everyday tasks more challenging. While it may seem like getting a stronger prescription is the solution, traditional glasses alone may not fully address the issue.

At River Hill Optical, we help patients find specialized eyewear solutions that improve clarity, enhance contrast, and reduce strain as macular degeneration progresses.

Why Stronger Glasses May Not Always Help

Unlike nearsightedness or farsightedness, macular degeneration affects the retina rather than the eye’s ability to focus. This means that simply increasing prescription strength will not restore lost vision. Instead, specialized eyewear designed for contrast enhancement and visual aid can help maximize remaining sight.

Best Lens Adjustments for Macular Degeneration

1. Contrast-Enhancing Lenses

Contrast is key for those with macular degeneration. High-contrast lenses, such as amber, yellow, or orange tints, can make objects stand out more clearly and improve visibility in different lighting conditions.

2. Low-Vision Magnification Lenses

Magnification can be helpful for tasks like reading and detail work. Some glasses come with built-in magnification, or patients can use additional handheld magnifiers when needed.

3. Anti-Glare and Blue-Light Filters

Glare sensitivity is a common issue for people with macular degeneration. Anti-reflective coatings reduce reflections from screens, headlights, and artificial lighting, while blue-light filters can minimize digital eye strain.

4. Prismatic Lenses for Eye Alignment

For those experiencing difficulties with eye coordination, prism lenses can help shift images to a clearer part of the retina, reducing double vision and improving focus.

When to Update Your Eyeglasses Prescription

Since macular degeneration is progressive, regular eye exams are essential to monitor changes and adjust eyewear accordingly. Signs that you may need an adjustment include:

  • Increased difficulty reading, even with adequate lighting.
  • Trouble recognizing faces or distinguishing objects.
  • Sensitivity to glare that wasn’t an issue before.
  • A feeling that your current glasses are no longer effective.

Comprehensive Eye Exams in Clarksville, MD

At River Hill Optical, we offer comprehensive eye exams to assess vision changes and recommend the best eyewear solutions for macular degeneration. By evaluating contrast sensitivity, magnification needs, and glare reduction, we can help patients find glasses that maximize their remaining vision.

Let’s Find the Right Lenses for You at River Hill Optical

If your current glasses no longer provide the clarity you need, it may be time for an adjustment. At River Hill Optical, we specialize in eyewear solutions that enhance vision and improve quality of life for individuals with macular degeneration. Schedule an appointment and let us help you to find the right lenses.