Assessment of visual functions of patients with senile macular degeneration

Abstract

Senile Macular Degeneration (SMD) can be detected and the progression of the disease monitored by the assessment and measurement of a number of visual functions. Considerable research has been conducted during the past ten years, much of it in Australia, on the pathogenesis of senile macular degeneration and its effects on different visual functions.
The purpose of this paper is to review the standard clinical tests used for the diagnosis of senile macular degeneration, to examine the use of these tests in low vision assessment with particular regard to SMD and, in the light of recent research, to recommend other tests which add to the evaluation of the visual characteristics of SMD. Those tests which can best indicate the rehabilitation needs of the person with SMD are stressed.