A new smartphone app allows people to see what the world would look like if they had the serious eye disease, age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

AMD affects central vision, making it blurry. Central vision is necessary for everyday activities such as reading, driving and watching television. Currently, around 22,000 people in Ireland are living with the condition, however, this figure is expected to rise to 32,000 by 2020.

The new app has been launched by the national sight loss agency, the NCBI. As well as simulating the condition, it also provides information on AMD, the NCBI and eye health in general.

"We hope that by launching the AMD Aware app that people will have a real understanding of the impact of sight loss. AMD affects central vision, making it difficult to recognise faces, read and get about independently. This app will give the friends and family of the person affected a better understanding of what they can and cannot see," said NCBI chief executive, Des Kenny.

He emphasised that when it comes to this condition, early detection is vital.

"We urge people to have regular eye exams, ensure their condition is managed where treatment is available and to seek support and services if their vision has been affected and is impacting their daily life," he added.

According to Mr David Keegan, a consultant ophthalmologist at the Mater Hospital in Dublin, AMD is the leading cause of blindness in Irish people over the age of 50 and it is becoming more common due to the ageing population.

"Those at particular risk include people with a family history of the condition, people who have worked outdoors and people who have had cataract surgery. Hypertension (high blood pressure) and high cholesterol levels are also risks, while smokers are twice as likely to develop AMD.

"To minimise the risk, we would encourage people to stop smoking, exercise more, eat a healthy diet and to wear good quality sunglasses," he said.

Anyone with concerns about their eye health is asked to contact their optometrist or ophthalmologist. Anyone having difficulties managing their daily life as a result of vision problems should contact the NCBI on (01) 830 7033 or click here

The app, which is supported by Bayer, is available free of charge from the Apple app store by searching for ‘AMD Aware'.

For more information on eye health, see our Eye Health Clinic here