[Follow-up of patients suffering from age-related macular degeneration, supplied with visual aids]

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is at present the major cause of legal blindness in industrialized countries. The results of various treatments are often not satisfactory and follow-up by Low-Vision services is then the only solution for this population. Few studies have been published on this subject. The purpose of this study is to present the use of magnifying systems and the degree of satisfaction obtained for this series of patients 6 months after prescription.

Forty-four patients were examined, 42 of whom were eligible for the study. Lenses, magnifying glasses, visual systems for intermediate distance, and electronic systems were proposed. A low-vision training was given to every patient.

The highest degree of use and satisfaction was achieved with the electronic systems. In some cases, however, the other systems were well accepted by the patients.

The follow-up of patients with age-related macular degeneration is of great social importance. The independence of elderly people can be safeguarded thanks to the help of Low-Vision services with a good equipment and a well-trained team. Sometimes, unsophisticated systems such as magnifying glasses can be proposed, but the best results are mostly obtained through electronic systems (TV).