What is the most common cause of blindness in the older adult?

The most common cause of blindness in older adults is macular degeneration. This condition primarily affects the macula, the region of the retina responsible for central vision. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is particularly prevalent among seniors and can lead to significant visual impairment, as it affects the ability to see fine details, recognize faces, and perform tasks such as reading and driving.

Macular degeneration comes in two forms: dry and wet. The dry form is more common and progresses slowly, while the wet form, caused by abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina, can lead to quicker vision loss. The high prevalence and impact on quality of life, coupled with the aging population, contribute to its status as a leading cause of blindness in this age group.

In contrast, while cataracts can cause significant vision impairment and are also quite prevalent among older adults, they are often treatable through surgical intervention. Glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy are also serious conditions affecting vision, but they do not occur as frequently as macular degeneration in the elderly population when considering blindness rates. This makes macular degeneration the primary concern regarding blindness among older adults.