AN EVENT aimed at raising awareness of the most common cause of sight loss in the UK is taking place in Malvern next month.
The Malvern Macular Support Group (MMSG), in partnership with the Macular Society, has organised an open day which takes place on Thursday, July 5 from 10.30am to 3pm at Malvern Cube on Albert Road North.
The open day will offer information about age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
It will also highlight the wide range of support available to people living in the area with AMD and other macular conditions.
On the day, members of MMSG will be on hand to talk to visitors about the group’s activities, how it helps people with macular conditions living locally and additional support available in the area for people with vision loss.
There will be an opportunity to try out some of the techniques used by the charity’s Skills for Seeing trainers.
These techniques can help people to make the most of their remaining vision, enabling them to get around and continue enjoying leisure activities such as reading and watching television.
The MMSG’s Gadget Guide volunteers will also be demonstrating a range of gadgets and technology aimed at helping with everyday tasks, including lighting, e-readers and tablets.
In addition, representatives from Sight Concern Worcestershire will be in attendance to provide information on sight loss support services available in the county.
Amanda Read, Macular Society regional manager, said: “Events like these are a great way to raise awareness of macular disease and highlight the support and help offered by the group.
“We would like anyone affected by macular degeneration to come along and meet others in the same situation.
“It’s good to be able to learn from each other’s experiences and tips.
“Peer to peer support can be so helpful.
“Our groups can really help people increase in confidence and become more independent.
“If you have AMD or any other macular condition, or if you have a friend or family member who has been affected by sight problems, then please come and see us to find out more, or come to one of our monthly meetings.”
The group meets at the Malvern Cube from 2pm to 4pm, on the second Monday of each month.
It is one of more than 400 macular support groups all over the UK and offers information, encouragement and friendship to people with macular disease.
Call Amanda on 01453 755803 or 07432 700478 or email [email protected] for more.
