Screening tool · 1 min
Amsler Grid — Macular Health Self-Check
Spot wavy or missing lines that may suggest macular changes.
What this test measures
The function of your macula — the small central area of the retina that handles sharp, detailed vision used for reading and recognising faces.
Why it matters
Macular conditions like age-related macular degeneration often start silently. Wavy lines or missing squares on the Amsler grid can appear before any noticeable drop in vision.
Who may benefit
Anyone over 50, people with a family history of AMD, diabetics, smokers, and patients already monitoring an existing macular condition. Dr. Roxanna Gangi recommends a baseline exam to interpret your results in context.
The Amsler grid is a quick at-home check for the macula — the central retina that handles sharp, detailed vision. Conditions like age-related macular degeneration can start silently, so wavy lines or missing squares are a useful early warning. Reviewed by Dr. Roxanna Gangi, Optometrist. If something looks off, book a comprehensive eye exam or a senior eye care visit.
Disclaimer: This online Amsler grid self-check is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not diagnose eye disease, measure your prescription, or replace a comprehensive eye examination. Screen brightness, device quality, lighting, viewing distance and concentration can all affect results. If you experience sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, flashes of light, trauma, or other urgent symptoms, seek immediate medical attention, or book a comprehensive eye exam or professional consultation with Dr. Roxanna Gangi, Optometrist.
How to take this test
- If you wear reading glasses, put them on.
- Hold your screen about 30 cm (12 inches) from your face.
- Cover one eye. With the other eye, stare at the centre dot.
- While focused on the dot, notice if any lines appear wavy, blurry, missing or distorted.
- Repeat with the other eye.
Take the test
Cover one eye and stare at the centre dot. Note any wavy, blurry, or missing squares.
Frequently asked questions
Want an expert opinion from anywhere in Ontario?
Online tools are a great starting point, but a one-on-one review with Dr. Roxanna Gangi, Optometrist can put your results in context and guide your next steps. Anyone living in Ontario, Canada can book a secure online consultancy — no need to travel to the clinic.