Our July speaker was Dilini Manthilaka on macular degeneration. Dilini is an Education Officer with the Macular Degeneration Foundation of Australia and gave a very informative, well researched presentation. The macular is the central part of the retina and is responsible for our ability to read, drive and see colours clearly. The risks of degeneration unfortunately increase with age. 1 in 7 will have some degeneration at 50 and this increases to 1 in 3 at 80. Symptoms include lack of clarity, distortion where straight lines appear curvy and a black patch in the middle of the eye. Your genes also play a part in the onset of macular degeneration and anyone suffering from diabetes is at greater risk.
All members attending the meeting were given an package which included information on the condition itself, together with lifestyle factors including wearing sunglasses, diet and exercise, together with an Amsler Grid to use regularly to test for changes in your vision and symptoms of macular degeneration. However Dilini stressed that you should see your eye specialist regularly, especially if you notice any change in your vision.
There is no cure at this stage for macular degeneration which is Australia’s leading cause of blindness, however there are a range of supplements and changes to diet that can help slow the process.
For more information you can contact the Foundation on 1800 111 709 or www.mdfoundation.com.au
Reporter: Greg Hughes