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Managing Your Wet Macular Degeneration During COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted the wet macular degeneration community and it is a particularly challenging time for people living with this chronic condition. Along with navigating unexpected treatment considerations, your daily life at home and interaction with your support network may have changed. To address common questions and concerns, we compiled some relevant resources.

Managing your wet macular degeneration

Monitor the progression of wet macular degeneration using the Amsler grid

Woman with eye glasses walking a small distance apart from a younger woman outdoors, both wearing face masks

Stock photo. Posed by model.

Winter, COVID-19 and wet AMD

Cold weather, icy streets and fewer hours of sunlight are just a few of the challenges that come along with wintertime. The season can take an emotional and physical toll on many people, particularly given the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some tips to help you navigate the season.

Home Guide

Female nurse speaking with patient and caregiver, all wearing face masks

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When is it time to return to the doctor’s office?

Worldwide, patients, caregivers and healthcare providers are making drastic changes to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This includes being careful of when and how often to visit the doctor. Here are some key considerations, so you can continue with wet macular degeneration monitoring and treatment appointments as soon as it’s safe.

COVID-19 Virus

Retina International statement on COVID-19

Visit the global, patient-led organization for information

Senior woman with eye glasses doing a video call with mobile phone

Stock photo. Posed by model

Video chatting and wet AMD

Tips for staying connected virtually

Maintaining social distance during the COVID-19 pandemic without feeling socially isolated can be challenging. Video chatting can help keep you connected with loved ones, support groups and doctors while staying safe from illness. Here are a few tips for becoming comfortable with video calling.

Man with glasses sits at kitchen table while looking at cell phone in hands

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Optimize your smartphone for low vision

Making your device work for your needs

Advanced technology made smartphones much more accessible. Most now have settings you can adjust to make them easier to use with low vision.

Woman with glasses in passenger seat of car looking at her phone while her son drives

Stock photo. Posed by model.

Checklist for getting to your wet AMD appointments

From transportation options to day-of appointment tips

Preparing in advance of frequent doctor’s visits can make the process easier. We’ve created a checklist to keep you organized and relaxed going into your check-ups and treatment appointments.

Senior man sitting on couch facing talking to female therapist taking notes

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Depression and Wet Macular Degeneration

The importance of getting help

Over one-third of wet macular degeneration, patients experience depression following their diagnosis. Make sure you are taking care of your mental health as much as your physical health.

Picture: Female doctor and patient smiling while talking

Ask your eye care team

Download our patient and caregiver conversation guide

This guide will help you throughout your treatment journey with macular degeneration. It is a tool that you can use to learn more about your condition and features questions to help guide conversations about treatment with your doctor and eye care team.

Download conversation guide

Man wearing glasses sitting next to a woman and looking at a cookbook together at a kitchen counter with fresh vegtables in a bowl

Stock photo. Posed by model.

Prioritizing Overall Health and Wellbeing

Tips for caregivers of loved ones with wet
AMD and other conditions

As a caregiver for someone with wet macular
degeneration, it can be challenging to
manage the condition along with other health
issues. Here are tips to help you support
your loved one’s overall wellbeing.

ViaOpta Apps

Managing life with visual impairment can be a minute-by-minute challenge, with simple tasks like preparing meals, reading and walking becoming tough to navigate. To help you continue to enjoy the activities you love, ViaOpta Daily, ViaOpta Nav and ViaOpta Sim were developed.