The best way to monitor changes in macular degeneration is to establish a regular schedule of checking your central vision. A regular schedule can vary depending upon one’s comfort level. A typical schedule is to check your vision anywhere from one to several times a week. This can be done using a block of squares called an Amsler grid, which is discussed in the next question, or using any object that has a regular pattern on it.
For instance, a window with regular panes, a floor with regular tiles, or a picture with a series of straight lines will work best. A pattern of straight lines is most beneficial, as one of the early symptoms of wet macular degeneration is distortion of straight lines. It is best to establish a baseline of the object that is used to monitor your vision and to report any changes as soon as they occur. Each eye should be checked separately by covering the fellow eye during checking. Many patients monitor their vision by a regular daily activity.
For instance, if they routinely read the newspaper, which has relatively small print, they will note changes in their ability to do so. If increasing difficulty is apparent, they will schedule an appointment with their eye care provider. One company is currently investigating a home device that may help patients to monitor their macular degeneration by testing on a more sensitive computer program that measures vision differently, and presumably more accurately, than an Amsler grid. The device, called the Preferential Hyperacuity Perimeter may be available for home use in the not-too-distant future.