Introduction

Macular disease is the most common cause of blindness and vision loss in Australia, affecting 1.9 million Australians. The most common conditions are age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic macular oedema.

While studies of clinical aspects of macular diseases are common, evidence on the social impacts is limited. Macular Disease Foundation Australia therefore commenced an ongoing survey series to measure the social impact of macular disease.

Methods

Each survey focuses on particular topics, respondent demographics, type of macular disease, and suggested areas for further support and advocacy.

The first survey of people with macular disease had 2,169 respondents, the second 1,969. The third survey is underway.

Results

Key findings from the Social Impact Surveys include:
• 34% of respondents had another eye condition that impacts their vision
• 16% had another health condition making it harder to look after their macular disease
• 40% rarely or never use an Amsler grid to monitor vision changes
• Only 60% of people with poor vision use low vision aids
• 10% had never tried a low vision aid due to concerns about not knowing how to use them, where to access them, or the cost
• There was a statistically significant link between poor vision and falls; 50% of people who were very concerned about falling reported a fall in the previous year.

Discussion

The presentation will highlight key results from the Social Impact Surveys relevant to orthoptists, including the importance of providing wholistic and psychosocial support for people with macular disease.