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Understanding Light-Based Treatment for Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Being diagnosed with dry AMD can feel worrying and uncertain. You may have questions about what this means for your vision and your daily life. Please know that you are not alone—millions of people are living with dry AMD, and research into treatment options continues to advance.
This page is here to help you understand more about a light-based treatment option that may be available through your eye care professional. We've written this information in clear, straightforward language to help you feel informed and supported.
What is Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a condition that affects the macula—the central part of your retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. In dry AMD, tiny deposits called drusen build up beneath the retina over time, gradually affecting the cells needed for clear central vision.
This condition develops slowly and typically affects both eyes, though one eye may be more affected than the other. Dry AMD is the most common form of the condition, accounting for approximately 85-90% of all AMD cases.
It's important to understand that dry AMD doesn't lead to complete blindness. Your peripheral (side) vision usually remains intact, which means you can continue to navigate spaces and maintain your independence with appropriate support.
How Dry AMD Affects Daily Life
  • Difficulty reading small print or recognising faces
  • Needing brighter light for close-up tasks
  • Colours may appear less vivid
  • Straight lines may appear wavy or distorted
What Dry AMD Doesn't Affect
  • Your peripheral (side) vision remains
  • You won't lose vision completely
  • The condition progresses gradually
  • Many people adapt well with support
Have There Been Treatment Options for Dry AMD?
For many years, treatment options for dry AMD have been limited. Unlike wet AMD, which can be treated with injections, dry AMD has historically had fewer interventions available. This has been frustrating for patients and eye care professionals alike.
Care for dry AMD has typically focused on monitoring the condition through regular eye examinations, supporting overall eye health, and helping patients adapt to vision changes. Eye care professionals have recommended lifestyle measures such as maintaining a healthy diet rich in leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids, not smoking, and protecting eyes from UV light.
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Traditional Approach
Regular monitoring with eye examinations every 6-12 months
2
Nutritional Support
Vitamins and supplements containing antioxidants and zinc
3
Lifestyle Guidance
Advice on diet, smoking cessation, and UV protection
4
Vision Aids
Magnifiers, better lighting, and low vision support services
Vitamin supplements specifically formulated for eye health—often called AREDS2 supplements—have been shown to slow progression in some patients with intermediate dry AMD. However, many patients and their families have hoped for more active treatment options that might help preserve vision more effectively.
New Option
A Light-Based Treatment Is Now Available
A treatment called Valeda® has been studied for dry AMD and is now available through eye care professionals. This light-based treatment represents a different approach to managing the condition.
Valeda® uses carefully controlled light wavelengths delivered directly to the eye. The treatment is designed to stimulate the cells in the retina, potentially helping to support their function and slow the progression of dry AMD.
Non-Invasive
The treatment does not involve injections into the eye, which some patients find reassuring compared to treatments for wet AMD.
No Drugs
Valeda® does not use pharmaceutical medications, so there are no systemic drug effects to consider.
No Surgery
The procedure is performed in a clinic setting without surgical intervention or incisions.

Important to understand: Valeda® is not a cure for dry AMD. Like other treatments for chronic conditions, it is designed to support eye health and potentially slow progression. Results vary between individuals, and not all patients may be suitable candidates. Your eye care professional can discuss whether this treatment might be appropriate for your specific situation.
How This Treatment Is Accessed
If you're interested in learning more about Valeda® treatment for your dry AMD, the first step is to speak with your optician or ophthalmologist. Treatment is offered through qualified eye care professionals who have been trained in this specific therapy.
Zollara Vision Services works in partnership with opticians and eye care clinics to make this treatment available, but we do not provide treatment directly to patients. We are a division of Zollara Ltd, and our role is to support eye care professionals in offering this option to their patients.
01
Discuss with Your Eye Care Professional
Talk to your optician or ophthalmologist about whether Valeda® might be suitable for you based on your specific type and stage of AMD.
02
Comprehensive Eye Examination
Your eye care professional will conduct detailed assessments to determine if you're a suitable candidate for the treatment.
03
Treatment Plan Discussion
If appropriate, your eye care professional will explain what the treatment involves, how many sessions you might need, and what to expect.
04
Access Treatment Through Your Clinic
Treatment sessions are scheduled and delivered at your eye care professional's clinic or a partner facility.
"All treatment decisions are made by qualified eye care professionals who know your individual circumstances and medical history. They are best placed to advise whether this treatment option is right for you."
What Patients Often Want to Know
When considering any new treatment, it's natural to have questions. Here are some of the things patients commonly ask about light-based treatment for dry AMD.
How Long Are Treatment Sessions?
Treatment sessions are relatively short, typically taking just a few minutes per eye. The exact duration will be explained by your eye care professional, but most patients find the time commitment manageable.
Is It Safe?
The safety of Valeda® has been evaluated in clinical studies. As with any medical treatment, your eye care professional will discuss any potential considerations specific to your health situation during your consultation.
Will It Hurt?
The treatment is non-invasive and does not involve needles or injections. Most patients report that it is comfortable. Your eye care professional can answer specific questions about what you'll experience.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
Treatment typically involves multiple sessions over a period of time. Your eye care professional will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and explain the schedule.

Remember: Every patient's situation is unique. These are general answers, and your eye care professional will provide information specific to your individual circumstances, stage of AMD, and overall eye health.
Next Step: Speak to Your Optician
If you have dry AMD and would like to understand whether light-based treatment may be suitable for you, we encourage you to speak with your optician or ophthalmologist at your next appointment.
Your eye care professional knows your medical history, the specific characteristics of your AMD, and your overall eye health. They are in the best position to discuss whether Valeda® treatment might be an appropriate option for your individual situation.
Bring any questions you have to your appointment. It can be helpful to write them down beforehand so you don't forget anything you want to ask. You may also wish to bring a family member or friend for support.
Prepare Questions
Write down anything you'd like to know about the treatment before your appointment.
Bring Support
Consider bringing a family member or friend to help you remember the information discussed.
Share Your History
Make sure your eye care professional has your complete medical and eye health history.
Important information: This website provides general information only and does not replace medical advice. Zollara Vision Services does not diagnose or treat patients. All treatment decisions are made by qualified eye care professionals. Valeda® is a trademark of LumiThera, Inc.
Zollara Vision Services is a division of Zollara Ltd. We work in partnership with eye care professionals to support access to treatment options, but do not provide clinical services directly to patients.