Each year, thousands of Australians hear the words, “you have age-related macular degeneration”.
But only 56% of patients recall receiving a clear diagnosis, including the name of their condition, and 58% are unable to recall receiving any lifestyle modification advice from their eyecare professional.
Macular Disease Foundation Australia has responded to this alarming knowledge gap with its new Eye Connect service. Emma Rossi interviewed their CEO Dr Kathy Chapman and their Healthcare Relations Manager, Meera Chandra Inclusive Agenda about their groundbreaking research, advocacy and the support for people living with macular disease.
Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss and blindness in Australia. About one in seven Australians over 50 who show some signs of the condition but most of these people have the early stages of the disease and are usually asymptomatic.
The Eye Connect program is really important because it provides tailored health information and support to help people after the initial clinical phase of their journey by strengthening their understanding of the disease and providing the practical and emotional support they need in such a stressful time of change.
Eye Connect provides (free of charge):
- Health information about macular disease and non-clinical support services to help them confidently manage their condition.
- Practical tips and guidance on nutrition, immediate care after their appointments, daily living with reduced or low vision, and transport advice.
- Emotional support to help people manage worries and concerns about their diagnosis and treatment through peer support where they can connect others also living with AMD.
Macular Disease Foundation Australia is the national peak body representing the estimated 1.9 million Australians living with macular disease.
To learn more about Eye Connect, head to www.mdfoundation.com.au/eyeconnect or call 1800 111 709.
You can tune in to Inclusive Agenda every second Sunday at 9:30 am or catch up with the podcast here – https://www.2rph.org.au/podcasts/