Macular Chats

Adapting to Life with Low Vision Nov 20, 2024

This Macular Chat episode will cover practical tips for maintaining quality of life with low vision. From adaptive activities to resources like large print books, there are resources to help you live well.

Taking Charge of Your Geographic Atrophy Oct 30, 2024

Geographic atrophy is an advanced and severe form of dry age-related macular degeneration that, if left untreated, can lead to irreversible vision loss. Hear from guest expert Dr. Veeral Sheth about the latest treatments, research breakthroughs, and how to protect your vision.

Understanding Stargardt Disease Sep 25, 2024

Join us for an in-depth discussion on Stargardt disease, a rare inherited form of juvenile macular degeneration that affects about 1 in 10,000 children and young adults. Learn about the latest in diagnosis, genetic testing, and promising treatments, which researchers are also evaluating in geographic atrophy.

Promising Studies Funded by Macular Degeneration Research Aug 28, 2024

Macular Degeneration Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program, is supporting 49 active research grants around the world. Join us as our Scientific Affairs team highlights a few of these groundbreaking research projects working toward earlier detection and prevention, treatments, and a cure for macular degeneration.

How Diet and Nutrition Impact Macular Degeneration Jul 31, 2024

What are the best foods to lower your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? If you already have AMD, can changing your diet slow the progression of the disease? This Macular Chat episode will explore how diet and nutrition influence the risk and progression of AMD and discuss the vital role that the gut microbiome plays in overall human health. Learn which foods to eat more of, which to avoid, and the latest research and clinical trials on AMD.

Geographic Atrophy: Your Questions Answered May 29, 2024

Geographic atrophy is an advanced and severe form of dry age-related macular degeneration that can lead to permanent vision loss. Guest expert Dr. Philip Niles shares what you need to know about identifying, preventing, and treating geographic atrophy and delving into the landscape of available treatments.

Resources to Help You Live Well with Age-Related Macular Degeneration Apr 24, 2024

After a macular degeneration diagnosis, the best way to adapt to vision loss is to learn new ways of doing things. Ed Haines discusses the resources available from the organization Hadley, which provides practical, social, and emotional support to older adults adjusting to vision loss.

What You Need to Know About Cataracts and Macular Degeneration Mar 27, 2024

Does cataract surgery increase your risk of developing macular degeneration? Learn more during a conversation with guest expert Emily Y. Chew, MD, who will discuss this question and the relationship between cataracts and macular degeneration.

Macular Degeneration: Get the Facts Feb 28, 2024

Age-related macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in Americans aged 60 and older. Guest speaker Gayatri S. Reilly, MD answers questions and shares all the facts you need to know about wet and dry macular degeneration.

Maintaining Emotional Wellness: Living with AMD Jan 31, 2024

After a diagnosis of macular degeneration many individuals experience a range of emotions, including grief, anxiety, or depression. Our expert guest will define and discuss different emotions, as well as provide specialists and additional coping strategies and resources to consider.

Can Vision Loss Be Reversed? Exploring Stem Cells and AMD Nov 29, 2023

Guest speaker Kapil Bharti, PhD discusses a new treatment for macular degeneration that is currently being studied using stem cell therapy to restore lost vision.

New Option for Anti-VEGF Treatment for Wet AMD Oct 25, 2023

Guest speaker W. Lloyd Clark, MD, discusses a new anti-VEGF treatment option that is available for wet AMD. Dr. Clark specializes in the treatment of vitreous and retinal diseases. He is also dedicated to the advancement of new treatments for retinal diseases through his involvement with clinical trials for the newest therapies for age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusions.

Treatment Options for Geographic Atrophy Sep 27, 2023

Guest speaker Dr. Veeral Sheth, discusses geographic atrophy, an advanced and severe form of dry age-related macular degeneration, and the landscape of treatments that are currently available.

Surviving Without Driving Jul 26, 2023

Katherine Freund, Founder and President of Independent Transportation Network of America, discusses how aging impacts our driving skills, explores alternatives to driving, as well as what you can do if there are no currently driving resources in your area.

Macular Degeneration Research: Update on Research Funding Jun 28, 2023

This episode featured guest speaker Preeti Subramanian, PhD, who oversees the Macular Degeneration Research and National Glaucoma Research programs at BrightFocus Foundation. Dr. Subramanian highlighted some of the exciting research currently funded by BrightFocus.

Patient Stories About Geographic Atrophy May 31, 2023

This episode featured Rob Howden and Diane Marshall, both currently living with geographic atrophy, the advanced form of dry macular degeneration. They give a firsthand account of daily living with geographic atrophy and discuss the importance of diagnosis.

Managing Wet AMD: Basics and Treatment Apr 26, 2023

This episode featured Dr. Surendra Sharma, Senior VP of Medical Affairs at Outlook Therapeutics. Dr. Sharma discussed the difference between Wet AMD and Dry AMD, who is at risk for Wet AMD, and what treatment options are available.

All Your Questions Answered About Macular Degeneration Mar 29, 2023

This episode featured Joshua Dunaief, MD, PhD, professor of ophthalmology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Dunaief spoke about symptoms and treatments for macular degeneration, including a new study of zebra fish to understand how they regenerate eye cells. Participants asked questions regarding eye injections, the risk factors of drusen turning into geographic atrophy and how important a healthy diet is to help prevent macular degeneration.

Patient Voices: Living with AMD Feb 22, 2023

This episode featured guest speakers Maureen Foley and Sheila Klein, who are both currently living with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and gave firsthand accounts of daily living with low vision. They also discussed the biggest challenges and the resources they find most helpful while living with AMD.

Increasing Independence with Assistive Technology Feb 01, 2023

This episode featured Jerry Feliz, Access Technology Director at Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. He discussed how to use a screen reader and apps the blind can use to help with daily activities. Jerry also spoke about his YouTube channel and he let participants know that he does private consultations for anyone that might need extra help increasing their independence with assistive technology.

Advanced Macular Degeneration: An Update on an Investigational Medical Device Nov 30, 2022

BrightFocus Foundation hosted this monthly chat featuring Dr. Maria Richman, a Low Vision Rehabilitation Optometrist from Shore Family Eyecare in New Jersey. Dr. Richman discussed Advanced Macular Degeneration and provided an update on the investigational medical device called the SING Implantable Miniature Telescope. She discussed the improvements and benefits made to the new implantable telescope device as well as the criteria that is needed in order to join the clinical trial for the device.

Adult Stem Cells as a Treatment Target for AMD Oct 26, 2022

This episode featured Dr. Sally Temple and Dr. Jeffrey Stern who are both co-discoverers of stem cells in the human retinal pigment epithelium at the Neural Stem Cell Institute, who addressed the role of stem cells in central nervous system development, maintenance, and repair. There was also discussion about cell transplants to replace retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and clinical trials for stem cell therapy and AMD.

Understanding Dry AMD and Geographic Atrophy (September 2022) Sep 28, 2022

Understanding Dry AMD and Geographic Atrophy.” The event featured Dr. David S. Liao, a board-certified ophthalmologist at the Retina-Vitreous Associates Medical Group, who specializes in the medical and surgical treatment of diseases of the retina and vitreous. The hosts discussed a proposed and promising pharmaceutical under investigation for geographic atrophy (GA) using a targeted C3 therapy. There was also discussion about other possible treatment for Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and GA, clinical research, how long eye disease may take to progress, and regular provider visits with optometrists and ophthalmologists.

Occupational Therapy for Low Vision: What You Need to Know Jul 27, 2022

Featuring Low Vision Specialist, Allysin Bridges-German, Clinical Assistant Professor at Towson University, who explained the role of occupational therapists and what they can offer to those with low vision. The hosts also talked about what people can gain from their services for macular degeneration and shared exercises for those with low vision.

Living Your Best Life with Low Vision (June 2022) Jun 29, 2022

The Chat features Ranjoo Prasad, OD, Staff Optometrist at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center and Board Member of VisionLink Philadelphia. Learn how to improve your quality of life by using low vision devices, making adaptations to your hobbies and tasks, making the most of lighting, and finding services to assist in identifying the best strategies for you.

Influence of Diet, Genes, and Lifestyle on AMD May 25, 2022

This chat features Dr. Rowan, an assistant professor of ophthalmology at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA, and a scientist on the Nutrition and Vision Research Team at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, located at Tufts.

The Latest on New Treatments for Wet AMD Apr 27, 2022

BrightFocus Foundation held this Access Live Event to speak with participants about eye care. Our guest speaker was Alicia Menezes, M.D., a Medical Director in U.S. Medical Affairs, Ophthalmology at Genentech. Topics of discussion included comprehensive exams, treatments, and new advances in research.

Ask a Retina Specialist Mar 23, 2022

BrightFocus Foundation held this Access Live Event to speak with participants about eye care. This event featured Dr. Gayatri Reilly, Retina Specialist and Vitreoretinal Surgeon at Retina Group of Washington, who spoke about macular degeneration and the effects that it has on your eyes. Dr. Reilly also spoke about both wet and dry macular degeneration and understanding both forms of the disease. She discussed preparation for doctor visits regarding macular degeneration or any other eye disease.

AMD in Challenging Times: Tips for Living Well and Coping Feb 23, 2022

BrightFocus Foundation hosted this Access Live Event to speak with participants about living and coping with age related vision diseases. The event featured Dr. Deirdre Johnston, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Johns Hopkins Hospital, who discussed the impact that age related vision diseases has on older adults and common challenges that older adults face living alone. Dr. Deirdre Johnston also addressed the depression and anger that people face when dealing with an age-related vision disease and steps to take when facing those emotions.

New Year - What’s New in AMD Feb 10, 2022

BrightFocus Foundation held this Access Live Event to speak with participants about living with age-related macular degeneration. The event featured Dr. Joshua Dunaief from the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center to provide tips on how to keep eyes healthy in the new year. Specific topics of discussion included stem cell research, new treatments, and dietary/vitamins that may be helpful to aid in this disease.

Living With AMD: A First-Hand Perspective Nov 17, 2021

This event featured Jill Adelman and Liz Tully, both of whom are living with AMD. The guests shared helpful tips regarding doctors and specialists that assist with vision loss and shared the physical and psychological challenges of living with AMD.

Geographic Atrophy: A Possible New Treatment (October 2021) Nov 08, 2021

he event featured experts including Moshe Vardi, Vice President and Global Medicine Team Lead at Alexion Pharmaceuticals, and Aleksandar Skuban, MD, Executive Medical Director for Neurology and Ophthalmology Clinical Development and Translational Sciences at Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Dr. Vardi explained the role of the immune system as it relates to GMD, or geographical atrophy. Dr. Skuban talked about studies being done to determine efficacy of new treatments, including danicopan, for GMD.

AMD: Your Questions Answered (July 2021) Nov 05, 2021

The event featured Joshua Dunaief, M.D., Ph.D., who provided an overview of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) including prevention and treatment. There was specific discussion about overall vision health, new therapies, and which populations are more susceptible to AMD.

What’s Ahead for AMD—Gene Therapy (September 2021) Nov 05, 2021

The event featured Arshad M. Khanani, MD, who provided an overview of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) including an explanation on how gene therapy is being utilized. There was specific discussion about overall vision health, new therapies, and which populations are most susceptible to AMD.

DMRE: los últimos resultados del estudio AREDS2 (junio de 2021) Oct 22, 2021

La conversación presenta a Sheldon Rowan, PhD del Centro de Investigación de Nutrición Humana sobre el Envejecimiento de USDA (Departamento de agricultura de los Estados Unidos), de la universidad de Tufts. La investigación del Dr. Rowan examina el impacto de la calidad de los carbohidratos en la dieta sobre la degeneración macular relacionada con la edad.

AMD: The Latest Results from the AREDS2 Study (June 2021) Aug 02, 2021

The event featured Emily Chew, MD, Director of the Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications at the National Eye Institute. Dr. Chew shared the latest news on the role of nutritional supplements in age-related macular degeneration. Participants asked questions about how to know if they are purchasing the correct supplements and if AREDS2 can reverse vision damage.

Safety and the Older Driver (May 2021) Jun 26, 2021

The event featured Elin Schold Davis from the Older Driver Initiative, who provided information about diseases that cause vision issues or loss and the effects on driving. Many participants had questions and concerns about safe driving conditions, signs for concerns about driving, and how to transition to driving less.

Living Well with Vision Loss (April 2021) Apr 28, 2021

This event featured Dr. Bonnielin Swenor, Ph.D., M.P.H., Director of the Johns Hopkins Disability Health Research Center, and an associate professor of ophthalmology at the Wilmer Eye Institute. She is also an associate professor of epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, as well as a core faculty member at the Johns Hopkins Center on Aging and Health. Dr. Swenor discussed advancements in the field of vision research, the stigma and burden associated with vision loss, and the connection between vision health and cognitive health. Dr. Swenor also advocated for those with vision loss, stating the importance of society becoming more universally designed for those with vision loss.

An Update on Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Geographic Atrophy (March 2021) Mar 24, 2021

The event featured Dr. David S. Liao, a board-certified ophthalmologist at the Retina-Vitreous Associates Medical Group who specializes in the medical and surgical treatment of diseases of the retina and vitreous. Dr. Liao discussed the latest treatments to manage dry AMD and geographic atrophy, recent clinical trials, ways to slow the progression of vision loss, and how to maintain and improve quality of life after the diagnosis of a vision loss disease.

Getting the Right Care for Your AMD (February 2021) Feb 26, 2021

Alan Glazier, OD, is an awarding-winning Maryland optometrist who discusses proper care for those diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration.

Keeping Your Eyes Healthy in the New Year (January 2021) Jan 27, 2021

The discussion features Edward Marcus, MD, a leading ophthalmologist in New York. Dr. Marcus specializes in medical and surgical management of retinal diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment. He also specializes in treating inflammatory and infectious eye diseases.

Future Hope for Geographic Atrophy Nov 18, 2020

Dr. Benjamin Kim is Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. His areas of research expertise include age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, geographic atrophy, choroidal neovascularization, retinal neovascularization, clinical trials, and retinal imaging.

AMD: Getting the Help You Need (October 2020) Oct 28, 2020

Ranjoo K. Prasad, O.D., a specialist in low vision rehabilitation at Penn Medicine, is the guest speaker.

The Future of AMD Treatments Sep 30, 2020

The featured expert is Daniel Chao, MD, PhD, who is an Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the Shiley Eye Institute. He is a retina surgeon, clinician-scientist, and entrepreneur. Dr. Chao’s clinical focus is in the medical and surgical treatment of retinal diseases with a special interest in macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, and inherited retinal diseases.

Dry AMD and Geographic Atrophy: Your Questions Answered Aug 26, 2020

The event featured Dr. David S. Liao, a board-certified ophthalmologist at the Retina-Vitreous Associates Medical Group who specializes in the medical and surgical treatment of diseases of the retina and vitreous. Dr. Liao discussed the latest treatments to manage dry AMD and geographic atrophy, recent clinical trials, ways to slow the progression of vision loss, and how to maintain and improve quality of life after the diagnosis of a vision loss disease.

How Your Diet Impacts Your Eyes Jul 29, 2020

The discussion features Sheldon Rowan, PhD of the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University. Dr. Rowan’s research examines the impact of dietary carbohydrate quality on age-related macular degeneration.

Macular Degeneration: Your Questions Answered (June 2020) Jun 24, 2020

The featured guest is Gayatri S. Reilly, MD, a retina specialist with The Retina Group of Washington. Dr. Reilly started her academic training by graduating with a Bachelor of Arts with Honors from New York University. She then received her medical degree from the Penn State College of Medicine and completed her Ophthalmology residency at the University of Maryland where she was honored by serving as the Chief Resident during her senior year. She completed her surgical vitreoretinal fellowship at Georgetown University Hospital-Washington Hospital Center-The Retina Group of Washington.

Maintaining Emotional Health and Vision During the Pandemic May 27, 2020

The guest is Deirdre Johnston, M.B.B.Ch., M.D., who is Assistant Professor, Division of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neuropsychiatry in the Department of Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and Medical Director of the PATCH and MIND at Home community-based programs.

Vision Health During the Pandemic Apr 29, 2020

The telephone discussion features Dr. Joshua Dunaief, of the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, who specializes in the study of age-related macular degeneration.

Coronavirus & AMD: Your Questions Answered Apr 02, 2020

This telephone discussion features Michael B. Gorin, MD, PhD, an ophthalmologist from UCLA who is devoted to research and clinical care of hereditary retinal disorders, especially age-related macular degeneration, retinal dystrophies and other medical retinal conditions.

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Low Vision Mar 18, 2020

The guest speaker is Joe Kardine, OTR/L, who is an occupational therapist at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Mr. Kardine specializes in treating those with vision and cognitive deficits as well as neurologic rehabilitation.

AMD: Your Questions Answered (February 2020) Feb 26, 2020

The guest speaker is Avnish A. Deobhakta, MD, who is an ophthalmologist and Assistant Professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York NY.

Keeping Your Eyes Healthy in the New Year (January 2020) Jan 29, 2020

Yasha Modi, MD is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at NYU Langone Health and is a vitreoretinal surgeon at Tisch Hospital and the Ambulatory Care Center. He treats people who have diseases that affect the vitreous—a clear substance in the eye—the retina, and the choroid—the layer of the eye containing blood vessels and connective tissue. In addition to caring for patients, he also performs research to understand retinal vascular diseases, including diabetes and vein occlusion, retinal drug toxicity, age-related macular degeneration, and the outcomes of retinal detachment surgery.

Update on AMD Treatments Nov 20, 2019

The discussion features Edward Marcus, MD, from SightMD in Brentwood, New York. Dr. Marcus specializes in medical and surgical management of retinal diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment. He also specializes in treating inflammatory and infectious eye diseases.

Nutritional Supplements, Dietary Patterns, and Age-Related Macular Degeneration Oct 23, 2019

The telephone discussion features Emily Y. Chew, MD, who is a retina specialist and is the deputy director of the Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications, and the deputy clinical director at the National Eye Institute (NEI), National Institutes of Health (NIH). Dr. Chew has extensive experience in age-related eye diseases, and designing and implementing clinical trials, including the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2).

Managing Your Age-Related Macular Degeneration Sep 25, 2019

The telephone discussion features Dr. Joshua Dunaief, of the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, who specializes in the study of age-related macular degeneration.

Living Your Best Life with Low Vision Jul 24, 2019

Having retired from a half century as a teacher, author, composer, theatrical director, and musician, Dan Roberts now dedicates himself full time to helping others learn about and live with low vision. Because of his own need for support and information about visual impairment, he founded MD Support in 1995 and has since become a leading patient advocate, industry consultant, and low vision educator. Christina has extensive experience with caregiving. She and Dan have been married since 1968. They have three children and seven grandchildren.

Caregiving & Low Vision Jun 19, 2019

The guest speakers are Joanne Dillon, a caregiver, and C. Grace Whiting, the President & CEO of the National Alliance for Caregiving.

AMD Diagnosis: What to Expect May 29, 2019

The discussion features Milam A. Brantley, Jr., MD, PhD, who is Associate Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences from Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Low-Vision Services: Getting the Help You Need Apr 24, 2019

The telephone discussion features Belinda Weinberg, OD and Sean Curry, MPH, of the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington.

Therapeutic Approaches for Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration Mar 27, 2019

Our featured speaker is Goldis Malek, PhD, of Duke University. Dr. Malek's lab is focused on investigating the mechanisms underlying age-related macular degeneration, and to hopefully identify therapeutic targets for this debilitating degenerative eye disease.

Living with AMD: What You Need to Know Feb 27, 2019

The telephone discussion features Dr. Gayatri S. Reilly of The Retina Group of Washington, who has excelled in research, patient care, and educating other eye care professionals about treating diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

AMD in the Winter: Helpful Tips to Stay Safe and Healthy Jan 30, 2019

The discussion features Deirdre Johnston, MD, a geriatric psychiatrist at Johns Hopkins University.

Clinical Trial Update: News on Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration Nov 28, 2018

The telephone discussion features Christopher Brittain, MB, BS, BSc (Hons), MBA, DIC, MRCOphth, who is Interim Global Head of Ophthalmology Clinical Development at Genentech.

Update on the Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Drug Pipeline Oct 31, 2018

The telephone discussion features Dr. Joshua Dunaief, of the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, who specializes in the study of age-related macular degeneration.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Your Questions Answered Sep 26, 2018

Priyatham S. Mettu, MD, is a Duke University retina specialist who is testing new treatments and new imaging technologies for age-related macular degeneration.

Diet and Gut Bacteria: Their Connection to Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Jul 25, 2018

The telephone discussion features Sheldon Rowan, PhD of the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University. Dr. Rowan’s research examines the impact of dietary carbohydrate quality on age-related macular degeneration.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Getting the Help the You Need Jun 27, 2018

Ranjoo K. Prasad, O.D., a specialist in low vision rehabilitation at Penn Medicine, is the guest speaker.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Iron and the Immune System May 30, 2018

The discussion features Dr. Joshua Dunaief, of the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School Medicine, who specializes in the study of age-related macular degeneration.

Advocating For Eye Health: What You Can Do Apr 25, 2018

The guest speakers are Sara Brown and Dan Roberts from Prevent Blindness who discuss eye health advocacy.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Your Questions Answered Mar 28, 2018

The guest speaker is Priyatham S. Mettu, MD, a Duke University retina specialist who is testing new treatments and new imaging technologies for age-related macular degeneration.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Patient-Centered Conversation Feb 28, 2018

The speaker was Dr. William Li, President of The Angiogenesis Foundation, and his guests: Leona, a person living with macular degeneration, and her daughter, Sharon, who provided their perspectives on managing this eye disease.

Keeping Your Eyes Healthy in the New Year Jan 31, 2018

The telephone discussion features Dr. Gayatri S. Reilly of The Retina Group of Washington, who has excelled in research, patient care, and educating other eye care professionals about treating diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Can Diet Protect Against Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)? Nov 29, 2017

Allen Taylor, PhD directs the Laboratory for Nutrition and Vision Research at Tufts (a part of the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging), and also holds faculty positions in nutrition, ophthalmology, molecular & chemical biology, and development at the Tufts University School of Medicine. He talks about how age-related macular degeneration (AMD) develops, the nutritional component, and what new research shows about ways to delay onset or progress.

Safety and Independence with Low Vision Oct 25, 2017

This telephone discussion features Orli Weisser-Pike, a doctor of occupational therapy and a certified low vision therapist. She has over eighteen years of clinical experience in a wide variety of settings and has for the past decade specialized in treating people disabled by vision loss.

Repurposing Drugs for AMD Sep 27, 2017

The guest speakers are Alfred S. Lewin, PhD, from the University of Florida Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, who focuses on developing therapies for inherited and age-related diseases of the retina; and Manas Biswal, PhD, a Postdoctoral Associate, also from the University of Florida.

How Low Vision Services Can Help You Aug 30, 2017

Ranjoo K. Prasad, O.D., a specialist in low vision rehabilitation at Penn Medicine, is the guest speaker.

Macular Degeneration: Your Questions Answered Jul 26, 2017

Milam A. Brantley, MD, PhD, of the Vanderbilt Eye Institute, answers questions about macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss in Americans 60 years of age and older.

Dealing with the Emotional Impact of Vision Loss Jun 28, 2017

The guest speaker is Deirdre Johnston, MD, who is a geriatric psychiatrist at Johns Hopkins University.

Geographic Atrophy: What You Need to Know May 31, 2017

The telephone discussion features Dr. Gayatri S. Reilly of The Retina Group of Washington, who has excelled in research, patient care, and educating other eye care professionals about treating diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Promising New Treatments for AMD Apr 26, 2017

The discussion features Dr. Joshua Dunaief, of the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, who specializes in the study of age-related macular degeneration.

Nutrition for Healthy Eyes Mar 29, 2017

Dr. Ward Bond, who regularly appears in the media and before public audiences, discusses the vital role of nutrition in reducing the risk and progression of age-related diseases such as macular degeneration and glaucoma.

Why AMD Is on the Rise-and What Can be Done Feb 22, 2017

The guest speakers are Sandra S. Block, OD and Christina Morettin, OD. Sandra Block, OD is a professor at the Illinois College of Optometry and was part of a National Academy of Sciences study, "Making Eye Health a Population Imperative: Vision for Tomorrow." Christina Morettin, OD is an assistant professor at the Illinois College of Optometry, and chief of Urgent Eye Care Services. Her interests include urgent eye care, primary eye care, ocular disease, including retinal disease.

Cataracts & AMD Jan 25, 2017

The telephone discussion features Dr. Joshua Dunaief, of the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, who specializes in the study of age-related macular degeneration.

Drug Interactions: Their Impact on AMD and Health Dec 21, 2016

The guest speaker is Dr. Gayatri S. Reilly of The Retina Group of Washington, who has excelled in research, patient care, and educating other eye care professionals about treating diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Short Days, Long Nights: Low Light and Other Challenges of the Holiday Season Nov 30, 2016

The guest speaker is Stephen Azman, who is Director of Patient Care at Low Vision Specialists of Maryland and Virginia (LVS), a group that specializes in maximizing patient vision and customizing optical systems for adults and geriatric patients suffering from vision loss.

Inflammation in Early AMD Oct 26, 2016

Gerard "Jerry" Lutty, PhD and Imran Bhutto, MD, PhD of the Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute at Johns Hopkins University are the featured speakers.

Answering Your Questions about AMD Sep 28, 2016

The telephone discussion features Dr. Joshua Dunaief, of the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, who specializes in the study of age-related macular degeneration.

What's New in Macular Degeneration Research Aug 31, 2016

The guest speaker is Tim Corson, PhD, an assistant professor in the Department of Ophthalmology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, at Indiana University School of Medicine. He is working on developing new therapies for diseases of abnormal blood vessel growth such as age-related macular degeneration.

Expanding Your Low Vision Care Team Jul 28, 2016

Ranjoo K. Prasad, OD, a specialist in low vision rehabilitation at Penn Medicine, is the guest speaker.

Meeting the Challenges of Macular Degeneration: A Story of Hope Jun 29, 2016

The featured speaker is Dan Dunbar, who was legally blind from macular degeneration and had some restoration of vision after having a tiny telescope implanted into his eye.

AMD: Keeping Your Eyes at Their Healthiest May 25, 2016

The guest speaker is Dr. Gayatri S. Reilly of The Retina Group of Washington, who is an expert on research, patient care, and educating eye care professionals on treating eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration.

Choosing the Right Doctor to Treat AMD Apr 27, 2016

Milam A. Brantley, Jr., MD, PhD, of the Vanderbilt Eye Institute, discusses the type of doctor that is most appropriate for monitoring and treating the wet and dry forms of age-related macular degeneration.

Spring Cleaning: Making Your Home Safer for Low Vision Mar 30, 2016

Orli Weisser-Pike, a doctor of occupational therapy and a certified low vision therapist is the guest speaker. She has over eighteen years of clinical experience in a wide variety of settings and has for the past decade specialized in helping people affected by low vision.

Tips to Maximize Your Doctor Visit Feb 24, 2016

The guest speaker is Michael Allingham, MD, PhD, who is an ophthalmologist at Duke University.

AMD: Answers to All Your Questions Jan 27, 2016

Adam S. Wenick, M.D., Ph.D., who is an assistant professor of ophthalmology in the retina division at Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute is the guest speaker.

Research Roundup: Treatments for the Future Dec 21, 2015

The discussion features Brian S. McKay, PhD, who conducts basic research towards developing new cell-based therapies for macular degeneration. He discusses a major new breakthrough showing that L-DOPA, a drug widely used to treat Parkinson’s disease, may help protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD); Maria B. Grant, MD, who conducts research using adult stem cells to repair damaged blood vessel networks within the retina that are associated with macular degeneration; and David Pepperberg, PhD, who researches methods to restore vision lost in diseases such as age-related macular degeneration.

Low Vision Resources & Services Nov 23, 2015

The featured speakers for this telephone discussion are Katherine Freund, the President and Founder of the Independent Transportation Network (ITN America), a national nonprofit providing transportation to seniors and to adults with visual impairments, and Karen A. Keninger, director of the National Library Service (NLS) for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, where her top initiatives are to increase braille literacy and leveraging technology to improve service to NLS’s 500,000-plus patrons.

Understanding Clinical Trials Oct 28, 2015

This telephone discussion features Christopher Brady, MD, an ophthalmologist from the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, who specializes in the medical and surgical management of retinal diseases, including macular degeneration. His research focuses on the benefits of telemedicine for underserved populations and how new technologies can improve patient care.

Healthy Living with Low Vision Sep 30, 2015

This telephone discussion features Neal Adams, MD, who is in private practice at DC Retina and is a nationally-recognized leader in the field of retina disorders. He is author of the book, "Nutrition for the Eye," and will provide healthy tips for those living with low vision.

I Have AMD...Now What? Aug 26, 2015

This telephone discussion features Priyatham (Prithu) S. Mettu, M.D., from the Duke Center for Macular Diseases, who provides helpful information for those recently diagnosed with macular degeneration.

Tips for Living with Low Vision Jul 29, 2015

This telephone discussion features Mary Jo McGuire, an occupational therapist in private practice from Akron, Ohio, who serves clients in the home and community addressing the real-life problems caused by aging, disease, or trauma, including the challenges related to low vision.

What You Need to Know about Wet AMD Jun 24, 2015

This telephone discussion features Michael B. Gorin, MD, PhD, an ophthalmologist from UCLA who is devoted to research and clinical care of hereditary retinal disorders, especially age-related macular degeneration, retinal dystrophies and other medical retinal conditions.

You & Your Eye Exam: What to Know, What to Ask May 27, 2015

The telephone discussion features Emily Y. Chew, MD, who is a retina specialist and is the deputy director of the Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications, and the deputy clinical director at the National Eye Institute (NEI), National Institutes of Health (NIH). Dr. Chew has extensive experience in age-related eye diseases, and designing and implementing clinical trials, including the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2).

Low Vision Therapy: What You Should Know Apr 29, 2015

The telephone discussion features Robert W. Massof, PhD, who is Professor of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Director of the Lions Vision Research and Rehabilitation Center and the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute, and Jim Deremeik, RT, CLVT, who is the LOVRNET Project Manager and the Education/Rehabilitation Program Manager for the Lions Vision Research and Rehabilitation Center at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute.

What You Need to Know About Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration Mar 25, 2015

The telephone discussion features Dr. Gayatri S. Reilly of The Retina Group of Washington, who has excelled in research, patient care, and educating other eye care professionals about treating diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Upcoming Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Research Discoveries Feb 25, 2015

The telephone discussion features Dr. Joshua Dunaief, of the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, who specializes in the study of age-related macular degeneration.

Driving Safety and Transportation Alternatives Jan 28, 2015

This telephone discussion feature Katherine Freund, the President and Founder of the Independent Transportation Network (ITN America), a national nonprofit providing dignified transportation to seniors and to adults with visual impairments, and Meredith Lyons, an occupational therapist and driving rehabilitation specialist who works primarily in treating patients with neurological disorders and visual impairments.

Macular Degeneration 101 Dec 17, 2014

This telephone discussion features Milam A. Brantley, Jr., MD, PhD, of the Vanderbilt Eye Institute. He discusses the basics of macular degeneration, including the forms of the disease, risk factors, and available treatments.

Meeting the Challenges of Macular Degeneration: A Personal Journey Nov 24, 2014

The telephone discussion features Jim Hindman, founder of Jiffy Lube International, who was diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration at age 57 and years later declared legally blind. He refused to give up hope, eventually finding his way out of the darkness with the IMT (implantable miniature telescope).

Making the Most of Your Next Doctor Visit Oct 30, 2014

This telephone discussion features Marti Bailey, the Director of the Sibley Senior Association and Community Health, who has helpful tips on how to get the most out of your doctor’s appointment.

Aids and Technology for Low Vision Sep 24, 2014

This telephone discussion features Ike Presley of the American Foundation of the Blind’s National Literacy Center, who has expertise in blindness and literacy, special education, assistive technology, and low vision.

Living with Low Vision: Creating a Safe Home Aug 27, 2014

This telephone discussion features Jennifer Kaldenberg, an occupational therapist who has expertise in working with older adults who are living with visual impairment.

Tips for Protecting Your Vision Jul 30, 2014

A telephone discussion featuring Jarrod Davies, OD, FCOVD, a developmental optometrist specializing in vision therapy and neurovisual rehabilitation, and Madeline, a person living with low vision.

Detecting the Early Signs of Macular Degeneration Jun 25, 2014

This telephone discussion features Dr. Jacque Duncan, an ophthalmologist at UCSF Medical Center, who specializes in treating retina degenerations such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration.

How to Remain Independent Despite Low Vision May 28, 2014

This telephone discussion features Orli Weisser-Pike, a doctor of occupational therapy and a certified low vision therapist. She has over eighteen years of clinical experience in a wide variety of settings and has for the past decade specialized in treating people disabled by vision loss.

Treatments for Macular Degeneration Apr 30, 2014

This telephone discussion features Albert O. Edwards, MD, PhD, a board certified ophthalmologist specializing in diseases and surgery of the retina.

Interview: BrightFocus Chats on Macular Degeneration Apr 09, 2014

The Talking Information Center interviews Dr. Guy Eakin, Vice President of Scientific Affairs at BrightFocus Foundation, about the mission of the organization and the new BrightFocus Chats telephone discussions on macular degeneration.

What is on the Horizon for Macular Degeneration? Mar 31, 2014

This telephone discussion features Milam A. Brantley, Jr., M.D., Ph.D., of the Vanderbilt Eye Institute, on the latest research findings and their implications for treatment; and a patient advocate, on living with macular degeneration.

Macular Degeneration: The Top Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor Mar 26, 2014

In this audio presentation, Dr. Guy Eakin, Vice President of Scientific Affairs for BrightFocus Foundation, discusses the top five questions you should ask your doctor regarding your macular degeneration diagnosis.

I Have Macular Degeneration...Now What? Feb 26, 2014

A telephone discussion on low vision diseases that features Michael B. Gorin, MD, PhD, an ophthalmologist from UCLA, and a patient advocate who offers firsthand tips and strategies for living with the disease.

Creative Low Vision Caregiving Tips Mar 08, 2013

In this audio presentation, Donna Gallagher shares a few adjustments that made around her home that make life easier for her mother, who has lived with low vision for many years.

Risk Factors and Prevention of Age-Related Macular Degeneration Oct 15, 2012

In this audio presentation, Dr. Guy Eakin talks about the factors that increase the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration and the actions that can be taken to prevent or slow the progress of the disease. This presentation is part 5 of a 6 part series on macular degeneration.

Research and Clinical Trials for Age-Related Macular Degeneration Oct 15, 2012

In this audio presentation, Dr. Guy Eakin talks about research into the causes of age-related macular degeneration and about how clinical trials test potential treatments. This presentation is part 6 of a 6 part series on macular degeneration.

What is a Comprehensive Eye Examination? Oct 15, 2012

In this audio presentation, Dr. Guy Eakin talks about what happens during a comprehensive eye examination. This presentation is part 4 of a 6 part series on macular degeneration.

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration? Oct 15, 2012

In this audio presentation, Dr. Guy Eakin talks about macular degeneration. Viewers will learn about the different forms of this disease, as well as its symptoms. This presentation is part 1 of a 6 part series on macular degeneration.

Treatments for Age-Related Macular Degeneration Oct 15, 2012

In this audio presentation, Dr. Guy Eakin talks about the two forms of age-related macular degeneration and the treatments that are currently available. This presentation is part 3 of a 6 part series on macular degeneration.

Symptoms and Progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration Oct 15, 2012

In this audio presentation, Dr. Guy Eakin talks about the symptoms of age-related macular degeneration. Viewers will learn about the various stages of the disease and how it progresses. This presentation is part 2 of a 6 part series on macular degeneration.

WYPL Radio Interview: Eye on Vision Mar 07, 2012

Vance Durbin, from WYPL's Eye on Vision program, interviews Dr. Diane Bovenkamp about macular degeneration and glaucoma.

What is Macular Degeneration? Nov 29, 2011

Dr. Diane Bovenkamp, Science Communications Specialist at BrightFocus, provides an overview of macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss in Americans 60 and older, and the second-highest cause of irreversible visual impairment in the world.

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