Open your eyes, seniors
The day she was honoured with Australian of the Year 2013, Ita Buttrose, made a public commitment to raise awareness of issues relating to older Australians, including macular degeneration.
The day she was honoured with Australian of the Year 2013, Ita Buttrose, made a public commitment to raise awareness of issues relating to older Australians, including macular degeneration.
For Ms Buttrose, it was personal. “I was terribly upset when my late father told me he had macular degeneration. As a journalist and author, dad always started the day reading a couple of newspapers, suddenly this was no longer possible. I couldn’t imagine not being able to read again. Macular degeneration is a devastating disease,” she said.
The Macular Disease Foundation Australia is reminding people over 50 years to have their eyes tested and macula checked during Macular Degeneration Awareness Week, which kicked off yesterday (Sunday, 26 May 2013).
Julie Heraghty, Macular Disease Foundation Australia chief executive, said: “There are some key ways we can fight this disease and the first step is to have an eye test and macula check. Secondly, do not ignore any changes in vision. Early detection can literally save your sight. Contact your optometrist or eye specialist immediately if you have any sudden changes in your vision.”
According to Ms Heraghty, many people would be surprised to know the importance of diet and lifestyle in reducing the risk and progression of macular degeneration.
“In fact, smoking can cause blindness, so don’t smoke. Eat dark green leafy vegetables, fresh fruit, fish and take appropriate supplements if required,” she added.
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness and vision loss in Australia. One in seven Australians over the age of 50 years (one million people) show some evidence of macular degeneration and this will rise 70%, to 1.7 million by 2030 in the absence of prevention and treatment measures.
Contact the Macular Disease Foundation Australia on 1800 111 709 for a free information kit.
