Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD)
The most common form of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), affecting the macula – the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision.
Understanding Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD) is the most common form of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), affecting the macula, the central area of the retina responsible for detailed vision, including reading, recognising faces and seeing fine detail.
The condition develops gradually as cells supporting the macula become damaged. One of the characteristic changes is the accumulation of deposits called drusen beneath the retina. While early Dry AMD may cause few or no noticeable symptoms, progression can lead to reduced central vision, difficulty seeing in low light and reduced contrast sensitivity, affecting everyday activities and independence.
Dry AMD is generally classified into early, intermediate and late stages, depending on the extent of retinal changes. In some people, it progresses to an advanced form known as Geographic Atrophy (GA), characterised by irreversible loss of retinal cells and more significant central vision impairment.
Although there is currently no cure for Dry AMD, advances in retinal research are improving understanding of the condition and creating new opportunities to slow progression and preserve vision. Retina International works with people affected by AMD, patient organisations, researchers, clinicians and partners worldwide to raise awareness, support access to care and ensure patient experiences inform research and innovation.
3 stages
Dry AMD is generally described as early, intermediate, and advanced (Geographic Atrophy).
Over 50
Dry AMD is most common in people over 50, with risk increasing with age.
Drusen deposits
Drusen are small deposits beneath the retina and an early sign of Dry AMD.
How Dry AMD can affect vision
Blurred central vision
Objects may appear less clear, making tasks requiring detailed vision more difficult.
Difficulty reading
People may notice they need brighter lighting or larger print.
Difficulty recognising faces
Loss of central detail can affect facial recognition.
Increased difficulty adapting to changes in lighting
Moving between bright and dark environments may take longer.
Missing areas in central vision
In advanced Dry AMD, areas of vision loss may develop as retinal cells are lost.
Any sudden changes in vision, including new distortion or dark areas, should be assessed promptly as they may indicate Wet AMD.
Identifying Dry AMD
Eye examination
An eye care professional examines the retina for signs including drusen and retinal changes.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
OCT provides detailed images of retinal layers and helps clinicians monitor:
- Retinal structure
- Photoreceptor changes
- Progression over time
Fundus photography
Retinal photographs allow clinicians to document changes and compare progression.
Fundus autofluorescence (FAF)
FAF imaging helps identify areas of retinal stress and damage, particularly in people at risk of Geographic Atrophy.
Amsler Grid monitoring
People with AMD may use an Amsler Grid at home to monitor changes in central vision.
Distortion or missing areas should be reported to an eye care professional.
Supporting independence
Regular monitoring
Routine eye examinations help detect changes and identify whether Dry AMD is progressing.
Lifestyle approaches
Healthy lifestyle choices may support retinal health, including:
- Not smoking
- Maintaining cardiovascular health
- Eating a balanced diet
- Staying physically active
Nutritional supplements
For some people with intermediate AMD, specific nutritional supplements based on clinical evidence may help reduce the risk of progression to advanced AMD.
A healthcare professional can advise whether these are appropriate.
Low vision support
If vision loss affects daily activities, support may include:
- Magnification tools
- Accessible technology
- Vision rehabilitation
- Lighting adaptations
- Mobility support
Emerging treatments
Research is actively exploring treatments that may:
- Slow retinal degeneration
- Protect retinal cells
- Replace damaged retinal tissue
Supporting independence, and participation
A diagnosis of Dry AMD can be challenging, but many people continue to live active and independent lives with appropriate support.
People living with Dry AMD may benefit from:
- Understanding how their vision is changing
- Using assistive technologies
- Adapting lighting and environments
- Accessing low vision services
- Staying connected with support communities
The emotional impact of vision changes is also important. Support from healthcare professionals, family, friends, and patient organisations can help people adapt and maintain independence.
Patient experiences are essential in shaping research priorities and ensuring that future treatments address the outcomes that matter most to people living with AMD.
Advancing the future of Dry AMD treatment
Gene therapy
Gene therapies are being studied as potential approaches for modifying disease processes.
Natural history studies and registries
Natural history studies and registries collect long-term data to better understand how disease progresses and to guide future treatment development.
Clinical trials
Clinical trials continue to evaluate new therapies designed to preserve vision and prevent progression.
Patient participation in research is essential to accelerating discoveries and ensuring that treatments reflect the needs of people living with Dry AMD.
Information and community support
Take the Next Step
Dry AMD is a common retinal condition that can affect vision over time, but growing understanding and innovation are transforming how the condition is detected, monitored, and managed.
Through research, collaboration, and patient involvement, the global retinal community continues to work towards better prevention, improved treatments, and a future where more people can preserve their vision.
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