Impact of visual impairment on service and device use by individuals with age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

To assess the patient-reported use of services, supplements, and devices among individuals with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and evaluate the impact of visual impairment level on this use.

Data for this study were collected using two instruments, the AMD Health and Impact Questionnaire and the Daily Living Tasks Dependent on Vision questionnaire (DLTV). Both questionnaires were mailed to members of the Macular Degeneration Partnership. The study was approved by an IRB and respondents provided consent before participating. Respondents' visual acuity (VA) was estimated using scores from the DLTV, while use of services and devices was collected from the AMD Questionnaire. De-identified data were analysed in SAS.

Of 803 respondents, 56% were male and the mean age was 73 years. Use of services (e.g., counseling, rehabilitation), and devices significantly increased as VA decreased. Using standard US costs, costs for services, supplements, and devices ranged from 506-1619 US dollars depending on VA.

There are substantial differences in service and device use with increased AMD severity. Delaying progression of AMD could result in considerable cost savings.