MACULAR DEGENERATION.....Finding help to read...so grateful.

Flatbush · ‎07-18-2015

Diagnosed 10 months ago with Macular Degeneration, made it difficult to read. I inadvertently discovered that two local public libraries would be helpful.

I have downloaded hoopla movies to my computer which also puts the dialogue on the bottom of the screen for the hearing impaired.

Then I also came upon Libby, a service that will read books to me. on my computer.

I can pause either program when I need to and then re-connect where I left off the next time.

The librarians have been so helpful and kind in getting me started.

All you need is a library card.

The future is not as dim...lol

colleena · ‎03-27-2010

@Flatbush Arent libraries wonderful w/what they offer.

Are you able to get the shots to help w/your macular degeneration? A friend of mine has been having them done in her one eye for about the last 6 months & they are working.

AngelPuppy1 · ‎03-13-2010

@Flatbush

I am so glad that you found these services! I don't know what kind of macular you have - the wet kind or the other one. I forget which one is worse. My mother had the worst kind. She got shots for her eyes and they helped for a long time. I wish you the best!

"A day without sunshine is like, you know, night." - Steve Martin

Ainhisg · ‎03-09-2010

@Flatbush As an avid reader myself, what you are going through would be so very challenging. I am glad that you are finding resources to help you navigate this condition. I will say a special prayer for you right now that you continue to find things to help you and that the MD does not progress or progresses very slowly.

Eileen in Virginia · ‎08-25-2010

A friend of mine recently found out that she now has macular degeneration in her second eye, making reading very difficult. She's gotten a lot of support from the National Lighthouse for the Blind. Her ophthalmologist also lent her a scanner for her desktop that magnifies the screen, enabling her to read her emails. Her son bought one for her for Christmas and it has really helped her. Hope this helps.

DSD2 · ‎01-09-2016

I applaud your seeking ways to help you; I admire your spirit and your positivity.

I wish you all the best going forward.

Still Raining · ‎03-30-2014

Best wishes for successful treatment. I know I treasure my sight.

I love Libby for all my down loads but have not ventured into audio. A round of applause for our local library services.

CelticCrafter · ‎03-09-2010

Wet Macular Degeneration is treatable, not curable. The shots slow the progression.

Dry/Age Related is not treatable.

Be mindful of the shots, they can cause cataracts. My husband has Diabetic Macular Edema in one eye. That's they eye that had the cataract that went from "you're starting to get a cataract to him not being able to see out of that eye within 6 months.

His other eye is fine and no cataract.

bmorechick · ‎03-11-2010

@Flatbush Both of my parents had macular degeneration - dad wet, mom dry. Mom never received any treatment for the dry. She died at 92 with decent eyesight!

Dad was diagnosed at 90 with wet MD. He received the shots until about age 96, until his overall health failed and he could no longer tolerate them. However, he would get them every 3 to 6 months and his eyesight was pretty good. My parents never wore glasses all the time. Both would wear cheaters to read and both had what they called "my tv glasses." The shots do help so yes, there is help and hope!

chessylady · ‎05-01-2010

I have early macular degeneration which has not affected my vision yet. My Dad had wet macular degeneration and received shots in his eyes. I have my eyes checked annually and have retinal scans in both eyes. The treatment for me is to eat colorful vegetables and take Preservision which is the only eye vitamin scientifically proven to slow macular degeneration. I am 75 years old and if need be in the future, will take the shots.