What is AMD?

Related to the process of ageing. Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition that can have a substantial effect on the lives and professional pursuits of performing artists, specifically musicians. The disease advances through distinct stages, each presenting its own set of difficulties. During the initial phases, drusen, which are small yellow deposits, become visible in the macula, which is responsible for clear central vision. As the disease advances, the presence of permeable blood vessels leads to the development of blind spots and distortions in vision, which are referred to as wet AMD. This can greatly impede musicians' capacity to decipher sheet music or perceive instrument keys or strings with clarity, thereby rendering their craft arduous.

Occasionally, AMD can develop into a more advanced condition known as geographic atrophy (GA), characterised by the degeneration and depletion of cells in the macula, resulting in the formation of atrophic patches. This can additionally undermine a musician's capacity to visually perceive music sheets or accurately interpret musical notations.

Symptoms and treatments 
Macular disease can significantly affect performing artists, particularly musicians who depend on visual cues and sight-reading. The majority of macular disorders result in scotomas and blind spots, which can impede the ability to read and cause frustration.

The visual challenges faced by AMD and GA can be effectively addressed using contemporary lens technology. High-contrast filters on lenses enhance visibility and improve the level of detail in sheet music.

Yoked-prism lenses alter the direction of the light that enters the eye. This aids in circumventing regions of macular impairment, enabling performers to more effectively employ their remaining visual capabilities. 

Macular degeneration, a condition characterised by gradual loss of vision, can pose challenges for performing artists. However, there are strategies available to manage this. By adopting lens technology and investigating personalised choices, musicians impacted by macular disease can persist in their passion with assurance and flexibility.

Extending playing careers

The team at Performing Arts Vision Care (PAVC) is made up of professionals registered with the British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM). They are committed to providing assistance to musicians who are affected by age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and geographic atrophy (GA) in order to help them maintain their love for music. They acknowledge the difficulties that individuals with visual impairments face when it comes to sight-reading and visually interpreting music. They provide assistance and practical strategies to help overcome these challenges. Regardless of your level of expertise, PAVC is dedicated to offering customised support to meet your individual requirements. 

The team of experts can help in examining methods to enhance the accessibility of music for individuals who are blind or have partial sight, suggesting adaptive technologies and tools, and offering resources on alternative notation systems. They adopt an individualised approach, considering the distinct experiences of each person with AMD and GA. They possess empathy and actively prioritise your musical goals, offering support in all areas of music production, such as locating easily obtainable sheet music or facilitating connections with fellow musicians. 

At PAVC, we firmly believe that visual impairment should never impede an individual's capacity to actively engage in their love for music. Their objective is to become your companion throughout this endeavour, providing direction and assistance at every stage, guaranteeing that the enchantment of music remains accessible to all individuals, irrespective of their visual capabilities.

Do you have vision problems as a musician? Is music production no longer enjoyable? If so, please contact us on 0333 335 5745 or email us via our contact page, If you are struggling to #SeeTheMusic or more.