Josh Ritchie for The New York TimesCharlotte Isen wears glasses with a built-in magnifying glass, which she uses when she is playing cards.Age-related macular degeneration is a common eye disease that gradually destroys central vision. An estimated 1.8 million Americans age 40 and older have advanced disease, and 7.3 million people have intermediate disease, putting them at risk for vision loss.
In the latest installment of the Patient Voices series, six men and women talk about life with macular degeneration and Stargardt’s disease, a similar illness that strikes in late childhood. They include Dick Coulson, 80, a retired orthodontist in Lakewood, Colo., who has managed to maintain his hobby of photography despite losing his vision.
“You have to get over the stage where you’re afraid to be different,” says Mr. Coulson. “I’m able to continue in my hobby of photography by having a digital camera that does the auto-focusing. I see big things, so I can compose a photo. You don’t have to give up things that you love to do.”
To hear more voices of macular degeneration, click on the link, and then please join the discussion below.
Do you have a question about macular degeneration or related illnesses? This week on the Consults blog, Stephen Rose of the Foundation Fighting Blindness is answering readers’ questions.
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Healthy living doesn’t happen at the doctor’s office. The road to better health is paved with the small decisions we make every day. It’s about the choices we make when we buy groceries, drive our cars and hang out with our kids. Join columnist Tara Parker-Pope as she sifts through medical research and expert opinions for practical advice to help readers take control of their health and live well every day. 
