Helpful Resources for Macular Degeneration Care

Download PDF

Macular Degeneration Research

www.brightfocus.org/macular • 1-855-345-6637

Macular Degeneration Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program, funds groundbreaking science to defeat macular degeneration and shares the latest insights on promising research, risk reduction, treatment, and caring for a loved one with the disease.

Free resources:

Macular Chats: A monthly conversation series with renowned vision doctors, retina specialists, and other eye care professionals. Learn about the latest research, treatment options, and practical tips for managing macular degeneration. Visit
www.brightfocus.org/MacularChats to sign up and listen to past episodes on demand.

Information Center: Get the latest news and information about macular degeneration at www.brightfocus.org/MDResources, including:

• Understanding Macular Degeneration
• Healthy Living and Macular Degeneration: Tips to Protect Your Sight
• Macular Degeneration Research Newsletter
• Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Eye Doctor
• Clinical Trials: Your Questions Answered

Community Circle: Hourlong virtual programs where people with macular degeneration can join together to share tips, ask questions, and build community. Visit www.brightfocus.org/AMDCommunity to learn more.

If you have questions or wish to request print copies of these materials, call us at 1-855-345-6637 or email info@brightfocus.org.

Additional Resources

Please note: The following organizations have been carefully reviewed for inclusion but are not affiliated with BrightFocus Foundation. We do not endorse any programs or products offered. Some organizations may charge fees for their services and advice.

Print and Audio Materials for the Visually Impaired

Choice Magazine Listening

Free talking magazine for visually impaired and physically disabled adults.

www.choicemagazinelistening.org • 1-800-724-6423

International Association of Audio Information Services 

Directory of audio reading services in North America and beyond.

www.iaais.org • 1-800-438-4380

NFB-NEWSLINE® (National Foundation for the Blind) 

Free audio and braille news service for the blind and visually impaired.

www.nfb.org/programs-services/nfb-newsline • 1-866-504-7300

That All May Read (National Library Service)

Free braille and audio library program through the Library of Congress. Access books in braille or audio, mailed to your door for free or downloaded instantly.

www.loc.gov/nls/thatallmayread/ • (202) 707-5100

Professional Eye Care and Low Vision Services 

American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)

Search for ophthalmologists near you and access eye health information.

www.GetEyeSmart.org • (415) 561-8500

American Optometric Association

Locate optometrists and get answers to eye health questions.

www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/find-a-doctor • 1-800-365-2219

EyeCare America

Service of American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) that provides no-cost eye exams and up to one year of care to those who qualify.

www.eyecareamerica.org • 1-877-887-6327

Federal Government Programs and Services

BenefitsCheckUp (National Council on Aging)

See what federal, state, and local benefits you may qualify for.

www.benefitscheckup.org • 571-527-3900

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

Information on Medicare and Medicaid services that may cover macular degeneration care.

www.cms.gov• 1-800-633-4227

Medicare

Services may include eye exams, eyeglasses, and vision rehabilitation services.

www.medicare.gov • 1-800-633-4227

National Eye Institute (NEI)

Promotes vision research and education. Part of the National Institutes of Health.

www.nei.nih.gov • (301) 496-5248

Social Security Administration

Information on managing benefits and eligibility, including financial assistance to those who are legally blind or who have vision problems that prevent them from employment.

www.ssa.gov • 1-800-772-1213

Veterans Benefit Programs

The VA ensures access to and provides coverage for eye care services for veterans who are eligible for health care coverage. Find out what services are covered and check your eligibility.

www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/ • 1-877-222-8387 (VETS).

Transportation Resources

National Aging and Disability Transportation Center 

Provides transportation options that help older adults live independently in their homes and communities.

www.nadtc.org • 1-866-983-3222

Rides in Sight (a program of Independent Transportation Network)

Provides information about senior transportation options in local communities across the United States.

www.ridesinsight.org • 1-855-607-4337

Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) Cares

Support for travelers with low vision and other medical needs.

www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares • 1-855-787-2227

Other Helpful Resources

Macular Degeneration Research, a BrightFocus Foundation Program

Lists of prescription assistance programs for macular degeneration treatments.

www.brightfocus.org/MDRFinancialAid/ • 1-855-345-6647

Be My Eyes

Free app connecting people with low vision to volunteers for visual assistance.

www.bemyeyes.com/

Meals on Wheels America 

Provides nutritious meals and supportive services to older adults. Depending on your location, services may include home-delivered meals, community dining, nutrition support, transportation, and social programs.

www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org • 1-888-998-6325

The Seeing Eye 

Matches trained guide dogs with legally blind individuals in the U.S. and Canada.

www.seeingeye.org • (973) 539-4425

VisionAware 

Practical tips and tools for people living with low vision.

https://aphconnectcenter.org/visionaware/ • 1-800-232-5463

About Macular Degeneration Research

Macular Degeneration Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program, supports groundbreaking research around the world exploring the root causes of and prevention strategies and treatments for macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss.

Disclaimer: The information provided is a public service of BrightFocus Foundation and is not intended to constitute medical advice. Please consult your physician for personalized medical advice; all medications and supplements should only be taken under medical supervision. BrightFocus Foundation does not endorse any medical product or therapy. 

©BrightFocus Foundation|Updated September 2025