This week marks Macular Degeneration Awareness Week, and while it is “generally an older persons’ 

disease”, Tamworth optometrist Andrew Greer said lifestyle factors could reduce the risk for locals.

“A smoker is four times more likely than a non-smoker to develop macular degeneration,” Mr Greer said.

“Diet can also be a factor, so eating leafy vegetables and antioxidant rich foods can be good.”

Mr Greer also said the prevention was better than the cure for macular degeneration.

The Tamworth optometrist wouldn’t say the disease was on the rise, but with the nation’s population ageing, Mr Greer called on over 50s to be more vigilant with their ocular health. 

“People over 50 should be getting their eyes tested every year or so,” he said.

Macular degeneration effects the central vision of the eye and while patients can have “quite good peripheral vision”, Mr Greer said it was a debilitating disease.

“It effects all facets of your life,” he said.

“If grandma has macular degeneration, she wouldn’t be able see your face, it might be just a black blob, it’s pretty horrible.”

NSW minister for Disability Services and Ageing, John Ajaka, joined a chorus urging baby boomers to get regular eye tests.

“As the population of NSW ages, more people will be at risk of macular degeneration,” he said 

“As a baby boomer who has just turned 60, I regularly attend an eye test and I would strongly encourage everyone to do the same.”