Ormond Bottomley, 89, has an active lifestyle despite his deteriorating vision.
Four years ago Ormond was diagnosed with macular degeneration; the most common cause of vision loss in older Australians. One in seven people over 50 are affected and the incidence increases with age. The condition results in the loss of central vision while peripheral vision remains relatively unaffected.
Ormond can still find his way around familiar areas but he is no longer able to drive and he has difficulty reading. “The main thing is that I can’t read the paper anymore. Also when I go to the supermarket I can’t read things like use by dates, which is a nuisance,” said Ormond.
Ormond plays the keyboard and electronic organ but he has found his vision loss has limited his playing. “I really miss being able to read music and I’ve had to give all mine away. But I still keep playing. People ask me if I play by ear and I tell them I play by memory.”
When reading became difficult for Ormond he was assessed by Vision Australia to find the best equipment to use his remaining vision more effectively. He tried several types of magnifying glass to help him read but found these were ineffective. He now has a closed circuit television (CCTV) which allows him to read small amounts of text.
“I’m pleased to have it because it keeps me independent. I mainly use it to read the mail and check numbers. Without it I would always have to be running in to ask the neighbours for help.”
Ormond feels that helping others is an important part of life and he first came into contact with Vision Australia through other residents of his retirement village who he would assist by driving to the Geelong site when they received services. “Over the years I’ve seen all the things Vision Australia has done for other people so it was good to know they were there when I need help as well.”
Macular Degeneration Awareness Week is May 26 to June 1 2013.
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