Which visual function might be affected by macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration primarily impacts the central region of the retina known as the macula, which is responsible for sharp, detailed vision. This visual function is critical for tasks such as reading, recognizing faces, and other activities requiring acute vision. When the macula deteriorates, individuals often experience a loss or distortion in their central vision, making it difficult to focus on details directly in their line of sight.

Peripheral vision is largely controlled by the rod cells located outside the macula, which remains intact in early stages or types of macular degeneration. Color sensitivity may also remain relatively unaffected as it is related to cones distributed across the retina, including areas outside the macula. Depth perception relies on the overall functioning of the eyes and their ability to coordinate, which can be maintained despite central vision loss in cases of macular degeneration. Thus, central vision is the visual function most directly and significantly impacted by macular degeneration.