Age-related macular degeneration
A leading cause of blindness in older people is a condition called age-related macular degeneration.
The macula is located in the centre of the retina (back of the eye) and is responsible for the sharp, central vision needed to see straight ahead. Ageing can cause the macula to slowly degenerate and reduce central vision in people over 50 years of age. It is estimated that 8.5% of individuals between 43-54 years and 36.8% of those over 75 years have some degree of macular degeneration.