Have you ever watched a resident suddenly stop showing up to bingo or pass up the chance to read their favorite magazine? Sometimes it’s not a change in interest—it’s a change in vision. One of the more common yet under-recognized issues is macular degeneration in senior living communities. If residents seem withdrawn or less engaged, it could be because they’re struggling to see clearly.

Macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a progressive eye condition that causes central vision loss. It doesn’t typically lead to complete blindness, but it can make everyday tasks—like recognizing faces or reading—a real challenge. According to Warby Parker’s overview of macular degeneration, symptoms can include blurry vision, difficulty with small details, dark spots, and even visual distortions. These changes may develop slowly and often go unnoticed at first.

The risk factors are numerous. Residents over the age of 50, especially those who are Caucasian, have high blood pressure or cholesterol, has a higher weight, or have a family history of AMD are at higher risk. Lifestyle choices like smoking and eating foods high in saturated fat also contribute. While treatments such as medication and laser therapy have shown promise, simple actions like a balanced diet, vitamin supplements, and antioxidant intake may help manage progression.

Still, nothing replaces early detection. In a BMC Public Health study on AMD in geriatric homes, researchers emphasized the growing prevalence of this condition among older adults in care settings. So, the question becomes: when was the last time your residents had an eye exam?

We routinely schedule visits from primary care providers, podiatrists, and wound specialists—but what about eye care professionals? A resident who stops participating may not be disengaged—they may just be struggling to see. Maybe it’s time to ask your medical director for a referral. You might find a local optometrist willing to visit the community a few times a year. If not, arranging transportation to a nearby clinic is a worthwhile alternative.

Macular degeneration in senior living communities isn’t something to brush aside. It affects quality of life in ways that are easy to miss unless we’re paying close attention. Watch how residents engage, ask questions, and take action sooner rather than later.

Stay well and stay informed!