Figure 3. Framework for AMD Rehabilitation

Text Description

Figure 3 applies the rehabilitation framework illustrated in Figure 1 to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). People with AMD usually do not receive medical interventions. Some interventions, such as antioxidant vitamin and mineral supplementation (as shown in row 1), may be beneficial in stopping the progression of AMD, but there is not yet supporting evidence of this.

Vision rehabilitation is more likely to be provided and funded outside of the health care delivery system, for example by charitable organizations or social services which address both medically and non-medically defined needs. As such, vision rehabilitation services are represented predominantly in the lower two rows of the framework (i.e., "individual/environment" and "social interaction").

Rehabilitation for AMD focuses on services such as individual skills training (e.g., use of a long-cane) and environment (usually home) modification (e.g., improved lighting and contrast), as well as social support services (e.g., transportation, family education). The context for such services may be office-, facility-, or community-based.

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