How does age-related macular degeneration affect vision?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) primarily affects the central area of the retina, known as the macula, which is responsible for sharp, detailed vision needed for tasks like reading and recognizing faces. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience symptoms such as blurred or distorted vision in this central area. This distortion can manifest as straight lines appearing wavy or objects seeming to be missing parts, significantly impacting the quality of vision and daily activities.

The central vision loss associated with AMD is particularly troubling because the peripheral vision usually remains intact. As a result, individuals may be able to see objects in their side vision but struggle to see details directly in front of them. This characteristic of AMD makes the selected answer accurate, as it highlights the specific way this condition influences vision rather than generalizing about vision loss.