Because no treatments are available for dry macular degeneration, and because the current treatments for wet macular degeneration will at best delay the loss of vision, patients may begin to lose their central vision after several years. However, total blindness is the exception rather than the rule.

Because side vision is usually not affected by macular degeneration, a person's remaining sight can be very useful. Often, people can continue with many of their favorite activities by using low-vision optical devices such as magnifying devices, closed-circuit television, large-print reading materials, and talking or computerized devices.

Your eye doctor can also prescribe optical devices or refer you to a low-vision specialist or center. A wide range of support services and rehabilitation programs are also available to help people with macular degeneration maintain a satisfying lifestyle.