Age‑related macular degeneration (ARMF) is a common eye disease that gradually impairs sharp central vision. Patients who suffer from this disease cannot read, drive, see faces or focus on anything directly in front of them. It’s estimated that 13 million people in the United States have ARMD, making it the leading cause of vision loss in people over age 50.

Since the late 1970s, the Irwin Retina Center at Ingalls and the vitreoretinal surgeons of Illinois Retinal Associates have been involved in numerous clinical trials dealing with the prevention and management of ARMD. In fact, the Irwin Retina Center has received more research grants from the National Institutes of Health for the treatment of macular degeneration than any other vision center in the entire state, and perhaps the entire Midwest.

Find out the latest in research, the full range of services offered and new treatments available to people with macular degeneration at a free seminar hosted by Celeste Figliulo from Ingalls Center for Macular Degeneration. Information will also be available on where to find low vision assistance.

The free seminar will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 4, at the Tony Bettenhausen Recreation Center, located at 8125 W. 171st Street, just off the corner of 80th Avenue and 171st Street, in Tinley Park. To register, please call 1.800.221.2199.