The Amsler Grid is a tool developed to help in the early detection of macular degeneration , the leading cause of vision impairment for people over 65. The grid was developed to allow patients to test their own central vision for early signs of macular degeneration, so it may be treated sooner.

Instructions:

1. Wearing your reading glasses (if you normally use them), and position yourself about 12 inches away from the screen or your normal reading distance.
2. With both eyes open, focus on the dot at the center of the grid.
3. Cover your left eye and answer the following questions:
• Can you see all four corners of the grid?
• Are any of the lines blurry, wavy, distorted, bent, gray, or missing?
• Are there any large holes or pieces missing off the grid?
4. Cover your right eye , and repeat the previous step.
5. If you notice any changes in how you see the grid, call your eye doctor for an evaluation.
6. Test yourself 2–3 times per week, keeping the grid at the same distance from your eyes each time.

Print out this grid and place it in a convenient location (like your refrigerator) that will remind you to use it regularly.