Byline: Darren Shields, Health Correspondent
Published: June 7, 2025
Location: Rochester, MN
New research from the Mayo Clinic underscores the crucial role that lifestyle choices play in preventing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), one of the leading causes of vision loss in older adults in the United States. The findings, released this week, emphasize that simple, everyday habits—such as eating a nutrient-rich diet, staying active, and quitting smoking—can significantly reduce the risk of developing AMD and help preserve vision as people age.
Understanding AMD and Its Growing Impact
Age-related macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease that typically affects individuals over the age of 50. The condition leads to the gradual deterioration of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience difficulty with activities such as reading, recognizing faces, and driving. While AMD does not cause total blindness, it can severely impair one’s quality of life.
In the United States, an estimated 11 million people are currently affected by some form of AMD, with numbers expected to more than double by 2050 due to the aging population. The Mayo Clinic’s research brings hope that these statistics can be mitigated by promoting healthier lifestyle choices and improving early detection strategies.
Key Lifestyle Modifications That Help Prevent AMD
One of the central findings of the Mayo Clinic study is the powerful effect of diet on eye health. Researchers have found that a diet rich in antioxidants—particularly those found in leafy greens, colorful fruits, and fatty fish—can protect against oxidative stress, which damages retinal cells and contributes to the development of AMD. Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, along with zinc, also appear to slow the progression of the disease in people who already show early symptoms.
“Foods high in antioxidants can play a pivotal role in maintaining retinal health,” explained Dr. Emily Thompson, an ophthalmologist at the Mayo Clinic. “Including foods like spinach, kale, and salmon in the diet can provide vital nutrients that help the eyes resist damage.”
In addition to a healthy diet, regular physical activity has been shown to lower the risk of developing AMD. Exercise improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation, both of which contribute to better eye health. Engaging in regular exercise can also help manage conditions such as diabetes and hypertension—both of which are known to exacerbate eye diseases like AMD.
Another major factor identified by the study is smoking. Smoking has long been linked to a host of health problems, but it is especially harmful to eye health. The Mayo Clinic research confirms that smokers are at a significantly higher risk of developing AMD compared to non-smokers. The toxins in cigarettes damage the retina and increase the likelihood of vision loss.
Managing Chronic Conditions to Protect Vision
Alongside adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle, managing chronic health conditions is crucial for reducing the risk of AMD. The Mayo Clinic study highlights the need for individuals to control hypertension and diabetes—two conditions that are frequently associated with an increased risk of AMD. When these conditions are poorly managed, they can lead to complications in the eye, such as blood vessel damage, which accelerates the development of AMD.
“Chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes are among the most significant risk factors for AMD,” said Dr. Sarah Lee, a cardiologist involved in the study. “People with these conditions should prioritize eye exams as part of their overall health management.”
Early Detection and Regular Eye Exams
Early detection of AMD is crucial in preventing severe vision impairment. The Mayo Clinic research stresses the importance of routine eye exams for people over the age of 50, as these exams are essential for catching early signs of AMD and other age-related eye diseases. A comprehensive eye exam may include tests such as retinal imaging, which can detect early damage to the retina before it causes noticeable symptoms.
Healthcare professionals encourage individuals with a family history of AMD or those with other risk factors to schedule regular eye checkups to monitor their eye health. “An early diagnosis can make all the difference in slowing the progression of the disease,” said Dr. Thompson.
Genetics and Lifestyle: A Critical Combination
While genetics certainly play a role in the development of AMD, lifestyle choices can have an equally profound effect on the disease’s onset and progression. The Mayo Clinic’s study highlights that individuals with a genetic predisposition to AMD can still lower their risk through healthy lifestyle changes. This finding offers hope for those whose family history might otherwise seem to dictate their fate.
“There is no one-size-fits-all solution for preventing AMD,” said Dr. Thompson. “But by making healthy lifestyle choices, even individuals with a higher genetic risk can greatly reduce their chances of developing this debilitating disease.”
Improving Quality of Life Through Prevention
The takeaway from the Mayo Clinic’s research is clear: adopting preventive measures can significantly improve quality of life for aging adults. Maintaining eye health not only reduces the risk of vision loss but also enables individuals to maintain their independence, engage in social activities, and enjoy a more fulfilling life as they age.
“Making small, sustainable changes in your lifestyle can help protect your vision for years to come,” Dr. Thompson concluded. “The key is being proactive and taking control of your eye health.”
