Depression rate triple among wet-AMD patient-carers

Overall, depression rates amongst those who care for someone with wet AMD were more than triple those seen in the general population over 65 years of age and those surveyed aged under 70 report even higher rates of depression, with one in nine suffering from the condition.”The golden years are not so golden for many of those diagnosed with wet AMD and those who care for th. From assisting with everyday tasks such as cooking, getting dressed and doing the finances, to attending regular doctor appointments, the heavy burden of wet AMD can rest squarely on the shoulders of the carer”, Ms Julie Heraghty, chief executive officer of the foundation, said.”So many carers feel the constant worry about accidents and falls, the continuous need to stay positive, and the relentless amounts of patience, tolerance and understanding they need every day, as well as the sadness at seeing their partner lose their enjoyment in life – it is a side of caring that many just don’t see,” Ms Heraghty said.”Carers indicate that while looking after someone with wet AMD they have felt frustrated (38%), sad (28%) or down (25%), and for over half of th it has a negative impact on their life – similar levels to that reported by people with wet AMD.”The ripple effect of vision loss beyond the individual is extensive. The majority of the time, spouses are bearing the brunt, with the flow-on effects affecting the carer’s family, the community and the health-care syst.”With the research revealing so many carers have had to throw their retirent plans out the window, put their lives on hold and their health on the backburner, it is essential that we turn our attention to the health and well-being of those caring for someone with vision loss.”Associate Professor Alex Hunyor, retinal specialist at Sydney Eye Hospital and Macquarie University, said the research reinforces the significant burden of wet AMD and highlights the importance of early detection and treatment.”There are many factors we need to take into account when treating patients with wet AMD,” Professor Hunyor said.”Their individual circumstances, including their partner, carer and family need to be included in decisions about the managent of the disease to help reduce the overall impact of AMD.”We know the impact of vision loss and blindness, and we understand the strain on both the person living with the disease and the person who cares for th. Anything we can do to save a person’s sight is vital; if we can detect the disease early then we have a window of opportunity to avoid or delay the heavy burden of vision loss.”