Macular Degeneration and Driving

When it comes to macular degeneration and driving, many people fear that they have to give up driving altogether. While macular degeneration can eventually have an effect on your driving, there are things you can do to stay a safe driver. If you can no longer drive, transportation options include public transit, taxicabs, and community groups that provide transportation services.

 

An Overview of Macular Degeneration and Driving

For most people, driving represents freedom, control, and independence. Driving enables most people to get to the places they want to go and to see the people they want to see -- whenever they want.
 
Driving is a complex skill. Our ability to drive safely can be challenged by changes in our physical, emotional, and mental conditions.
 

Effects of Macular Degeneration on Driving

Macular degeneration can distort your central vision and can lead to a loss of sharp vision. Macular degeneration also can make it difficult to see road signs, traffic, and people walking, and it may affect your ability to drive safely.
 

Can People With Macular Degeneration Still Drive?

If your eye care expert has told you that you have macular degeneration, there are certain things that you should know and do to stay a safe driver.
 
People experience the visual effects of macular degeneration in different ways. In the early stages of macular degeneration, you may only have small central areas of vision loss or distortion that may not affect your driving. In fact, you may not even notice any change in your eyesight. As macular degeneration progresses, it may become harder for you to see clearly. This may make you worry about your vision and can make it harder to drive safely.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD