A US survey found almost 80% of caregivers for at-risk adults mistakenly view vision loss as an inevitable part of ageing, while less than 30% are aware of wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular oedema and diabetic retinopathy.  

These misperceptions can lead caregivers to overlook signs of serious retinal diseases that may be treatable, said Jeff Todd, president and CEO, Prevent Blindness, the volunteer eye health and safety organisation which commissioned the survey. "That's why it's so important to educate the public and, for those at risk of retinal diseases and their caregivers, to prioritise eye health, monitoring for eye health changes and being vigilant about getting our eyes and our vision checked regularly.” 

Data also showed 75% of surveyed caregivers said it would be challenging to care for someone with significant vision loss, underscoring the burden retinal diseases can have on both patients and their caregivers. 

The 2023 survey was conducted by Wakefield Research and included 667 adults aged over 55 years and at risk of retinal diseases, plus 333 of their caregivers, aged 18-54 years old.