I work at a continuous care retirement community as a resident services coordinator. I currently have a resident that suffers from macular degeneration. She is finding it increasingly difficult to see and manage in her own home, especially in areas such as the laundry room. We would increase the wattage of her light bulbs, but it would be a violation of fire code. I am currently researching to see if there is anything that can be done to help her, she wants to remain living independently for as long as possible. I was hoping someone could give me some tips or advice to help her and others on campus like her.

How awesome that you are so dedicated to helping the residents! Perhaps enlarged signs that label items and objects can help such as the laundry room and where the washer and dryer are. Please make sure that the resident(s) doesn't have any throw rugs which can cause the person to easily stumble and fall.

And I'm not a doctor, of course, but I've heard that herbs such as bilberry, lutein, brewer's yeast and taurine may help with vision (however, not an actual cure, not a panacea). My grandmother had had macular degeneration and said that doing puzzles such as (large print) word searches and crosswords did seem to help or preserve her vision somewhat. How about a large magnifying glass and large tv remote as well if she doesn't already have one.