What is the most common cause of vision loss in older adults?

The most common cause of vision loss in older adults is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This condition primarily affects the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for central vision and tasks such as reading and recognizing faces. AMD is characterized by the deterioration of the macula, leading to a loss of sharp, central vision, while peripheral vision typically remains unaffected.

The prevalence of AMD increases significantly with age, making it a leading cause of severe vision impairment and blindness in the elderly population. It often progresses slowly and can go unnoticed in the early stages, which is why many individuals don't seek treatment until significant vision loss has occurred.

In contrast, while cataracts are also a common issue among older adults and can lead to vision loss, they are often treatable through surgery. Diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, while important causes of vision loss, do not have the same incidence rates in the general older adult population as AMD does. Therefore, age-related macular degeneration stands out as the predominant cause of vision loss among older individuals.