Games for people with AMD: chess in large format and other ideas
For a person with AMD, priority should be given to large formats, strong contrast and good lighting, as the condition damages central vision while leaving peripheral vision intact. Chess, draughts, dominoes with large spots and cards with large print are good choices. This page does not replace medical advice.
AMD and games: what you need to know
The macula provides fine vision, the kind used for reading, recognising a face or distinguishing a chess piece. When it deteriorates, the centre of the visual field becomes blurred or dark, while the periphery remains visible. According to Inserm, the condition, in all its forms, affects around 8% of the French population, with a frequency that rises sharply with age: about 1% of those aged 50–55, and 25 to 30% of those over 75. These figures should be roughly halved if only late forms with loss of central vision are considered. Other sources put forward different figures, so they should be read as orders of magnitude.
In practice, the person can see better by looking slightly to the side of the object. A suitable game makes this strategy easier: large pieces, clearly distinct sides, and no overwhelming patterns.
Chess in large format
Chess requires no reading of text: everything lies in the shape of the pieces and the colour of the squares. This is an advantage for a person with AMD, provided suitable equipment is chosen.
- Tall, wide pieces, with clearly differentiated silhouettes (knight, bishop, queen).
- Contrasting sides: very light pieces against very dark pieces.
- Matt board, without reflections or glossy varnish, with generously sized squares.
- Lighting that is even and adjustable, coming preferably from the side.
Le Palais des Échecs explains in an article how to choose a large chessboard, with the square and king height measurements: a good reference for identifying a comfortable set. To give a game to a loved one who is retiring, the same site also offers a chess set to give on retirement.
Other games and activities for visually impaired seniors
| Idea | Why it suits | Point to watch |
|---|---|---|
| Chess, draughts | No text to read, large contrasting pieces | Board without glare |
| Cards with large print | Easier reading | Good light, plain tablecloth |
| Dominoes with large spots | Simple to spot, short games | Black and white contrast |
| Oral memory games | No sight required | Adapt to the person's pace |
| Audiobooks, radio | Independent listening activity | Comfortable volume and headphones |
For families and care homes
In a care home (EHPAD) or day centre, a few habits help: a clear table, soft direct light, games of twenty to thirty minutes, and a facilitator who announces the moves. Chess can also be played by two people of different levels: one may give the other a piece advantage. The aim is the pleasure of playing together. If vision continues to decline, gradually move towards tactile play; the page games for visually impaired people details the adaptations, and the page on games for blind people extends this discussion.
What this guide does not say
This site offers no medical advice. Any decline in vision, or any distortion of straight lines, warrants prompt consultation with an ophthalmologist. Furthermore, nothing here claims that chess has any therapeutic effect on the condition.
Frequently asked questions
What activity suits an older visually impaired person?
Games with large elements and strong contrast (chess, draughts, dominoes, cards with large print), listening activities (audiobooks, radio), and memory games. Short, regular sessions are preferable to long, tiring ones.
Which game suits a person with AMD?
A game that does not require reading fine detail: chess or draughts with large pieces, well-contrasted sides, a matt board without glare, and a well-placed lamp. Retained peripheral vision helps to spot the piece, whereas central vision struggles to read it.
Does AMD cause blindness?
AMD gradually destroys the macula, the central area of the retina, causing loss of central vision. Peripheral vision is generally retained: the condition rarely leads to total blindness, but it hampers reading and the recognition of detail.