TL;DR
If you have a friend, family member, or loved one diagnosed with macular degeneration, you might wonder how best to support them. Here’s a guide on how to help someone with macular degeneration, offering practical advice and emotional support.
Offer emotional support
A diagnosis of macular degeneration can be overwhelming, and your loved one may experience feelings of frustration, anger, or sadness.
Be there to listen and provide emotional support. It’s essential to acknowledge their feelings and offer comfort, without dismissing their concerns or making them feel as though their condition is something they should simply “get over.”
Encourage them to talk about their experience with the condition. Showing that you care and are available to listen can help ease their emotional burden.
Help with daily tasks
As macular degeneration progresses, it can become more challenging for the person to perform everyday activities. Offer to help with tasks that require clear vision, such as:
- Reading: Large print books, audiobooks, and screen reader software can be a helpful alternative. If your loved one enjoys reading, consider helping them access these tools. You might also help by reading aloud important documents, letters, or instructions.
- Cooking: Preparing meals can become challenging due to impaired vision. Offer to help with meal preparation or even cooking, especially when sharp cutting or using the stove is involved.
- Shopping: Accompany them on grocery trips, or consider setting up an online shopping account for them to make the process easier. Shopping together can help ensure they don’t miss important items.
- Cleaning: Tasks like cleaning windows or doing detailed cleaning work may become difficult. Offering a hand with these chores will go a long way in reducing stress.
It’s important to remember that offering help doesn’t mean taking over completely. Respect their independence and encourage them to continue doing things on their own as much as possible, with the assistance of supportive tools and technology.
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Encourage the use of assistive technologies
There are numerous assistive technologies and tools designed to help people with macular degeneration maintain independence. These include:
- Magnification devices: These are tools that enlarge text, images, or objects, making it easier for your loved one to see. Options range from handheld magnifiers to electronic magnification systems that work with a computer or television.
- Text-to-speech software: For those who struggle to read, text-to-speech software can read out written text from books, newspapers, or even websites. Software like JAWS (Job Access With Speech) and NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) are popular and work with most devices.
- Smartphone apps: There are numerous apps that can assist with daily tasks, such as detecting objects, reading signs, or identifying products in stores. Apps like Seeing AI and Be My Eyes are free and designed to help people with visual impairments.
- Audio books and podcasts: Encourage your loved one to explore audiobooks and podcasts, which can be enjoyed without the need for sight. Organisations like the RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) offer free audiobooks for people with vision loss.
Create a safe and accessible living environment
As vision diminishes, your loved one’s home may need some adjustments to ensure safety and ease of movement. Here are some practical ways to make their home environment safer:
- Lighting: Adequate lighting is essential for anyone with vision problems. Make sure that areas like stairways, hallways, and workspaces are well-lit. Consider using adjustable lights to focus light where it’s needed most.
- Clutter-free spaces: Remove clutter from floors, tables, and countertops. Ensure that objects are within easy reach, and consider using brightly coloured tape or markers to highlight key items, such as kitchen drawers or door handles.
- Contrasting colours: Use high-contrast colours for everyday items, such as dark rugs on light floors, so they are easier to spot. Mark electrical outlets and switches with bright stickers to make them easier to find.
- Mobility aids: If your loved one uses a cane or guide dog, ensure that these tools are available and in good condition. Mobility aids can help them navigate both inside and outside their home more easily.
Consider the possibility of installing more advanced aids such as voice-controlled smart home devices or devices with larger screens.
Support them with their healthcare appointments
Regular check-ups with an eye specialist, such as an ophthalmologist or optometrist, are vital for managing macular degeneration. Offer to accompany your loved one to their appointments, or help them arrange transportation if necessary. This can relieve some of the stress they may feel, particularly if they have difficulty navigating public transport or unfamiliar areas.
You can also help them keep track of their treatment plan and any medication they may be prescribed. Ensure they attend appointments on time, and assist them in asking questions about their condition, treatment options, or potential new therapies.
Encourage participation in support groups
Living with macular degeneration can be isolating, especially when it comes to the emotional toll of adjusting to sight loss. Encourage your loved one to join a support group, either in person or online. These groups offer a safe space where individuals can share experiences, coping strategies, and advice about living with macular degeneration.
There are several organisations and charities, such as the Macular Society, that offer both emotional support and practical resources. Many of these groups hold regular meetings and events, where individuals can find encouragement and learn from others who are going through similar experiences.
Help them stay active and social
Remaining socially and mentally active is important for people with macular degeneration. Encourage your loved one to stay involved in activities they enjoy, whether it’s joining a local club, visiting friends and family, or participating in hobbies.
Staying physically active is also crucial. Encourage them to get out for regular walks, join fitness classes tailored for people with low vision, or take part in activities such as yoga or tai chi. These activities not only improve overall well-being but can also reduce the risk of depression and anxiety, which are common among individuals with vision loss.
Your support can go a long way
By providing a supportive and understanding presence, you can help your loved one adapt to their condition and continue to lead an active, fulfilling life. Remember that each person’s experience with macular degeneration is unique, and the most important thing is to listen to their needs and offer help in a way that respects their autonomy and dignity.
