[beth]

My mother has been diagnosed with macular degeneration. Does anyone know how quickly this condition progresses? My mother is very concerned she will go blind and doctor doesn't seem to be able to reassure her or give her a time frame for sight deterioration. Also I have heard of supplements wjich can help. Any info would be welcome.

[HappyWife]

I'm very sorry to hear about your mother's diagnosis. My father lost his eyesight in his early 20s (different condition), so I know how difficult it will be to watch your mother try to adjust to her deteriorating sight. There are different kinds of macular degeneration. I know of at least two--wet and dry-- and there may be others, so knowing that will help your mother find the information she needs. The American Macular Degeneration Foundation might be a good place to look for information. Does anyone know of different tools (large screen computers, braille writers, etc.)that can help someone adjust to losing their sight?

[beth]

I'll get on to the site you recommended. In the reading I've done so far, I have not come across "dry"and "wet" degeneration at all. Do you know anything more about this?

[HappyWife]

Hi Beth,
I really don't know much about macular dengernation other than the different kinds require different treatments (no cure), and that, in Canada at least, some treatments aren't considered effective enough to be paid for my gov't insurance. I hope you and your mother find the information you need. Do you have any mechanisms in place to help your mother deal with the emotional element of losing her sight?

[beth]

As my father had it as well, we pretty much know what we are in for. Although, my mother's condition doesn't seem to be deteriorating at a great rate, which is good. She can still read for short periods and as she's never been a great reader (just a big talker!) she's still reasonably content with what she can manage at the moment. I recently saw /read something about a cure for macular degeneration in the pipeline, so as I would appear to have a double genetic dose of it, I can only hope they get on to it soon!