Visual Disability and Spiritual Ability in Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is a major cause for loss of vision in the elderly. The lack of efficient treatment makes the disease a challenge for a person already faced with other struggles of the senescence (e.g., loss of mobility, hearing impairment). Visual deterioration amplifies the complexities of interactions with their surroundings and adds functional dependence on others (family, friends, specialized personnel). Drop in visual acuity renders the patient incapable of reading, writing, watching TV, driving, or even performing simple daily tasks. Social engagements are difficult when face recognition is impaired. The patient’s response to all these changes could be acceptance, denial, isolation, and depression/anxiety. Coping mechanisms will facilitate the individual in the process of acceptance and adjustment to a life with a progressive degenerative disease. These involve external mechanisms (help from others, support groups, technologies for low-vision rehabilitation) and internal mechanisms (spirituality and religion).