The Centre for Sight Enhancement at the University of Waterloo will host a public education event on age-related macular degeneration (AMD) on Saturday, where experts will discuss current studies, treatment options and debunk myths about the condition.
AMD is an incurable eye disease and the leading cause of vision loss in older Canadians. A gradual deterioration of the central portion of the retina —or macula—results in a central area of vision loss. This central vision is critical for detailed seeing tasks such as reading, driving and even recognizing faces.
“There are options out there for people with AMD and we’d like them to have good information so they can advocate for themselves,” said Dr. Tammy Labreche, director of the Centre for Sight Enhancement and professor at Waterloo’s School of Optometry and Vision Science.
The event will offer a series of brief presentations describing macular degeneration, and will review its potential prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. In an exhibit area, various agencies and companies will demonstrate the latest services, products and technologies that are available to help people with AMD.
Dr. Tom Sheidow, Ophthalmologist and Waterloo alumnus, will deliver the keynote address.
Living with Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Date: Saturday, June 11, 2016
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Doors open at 8:30 a.m.
Location: Room 347, School of Optometry and Vision Science, (OPT), 200 Columbia Street West, Waterloo N2L 3G1
Free parking is available in Lot X, beside the building.
Attendees must register on the conference website or by calling 519-888-4567, ext. 36282. Auditorium seating. Please advise if accessible seating is required.
