Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD or ARMD), describes a variety of conditions that affect the macula, and thus, central vision. While peripheral vision is what you see toward your sides, central vision is what you see directly in front of you. 

A routine eye exam is not the same as a contact lens exam. For contact lens wearers, a contact lens exam is necessary to ensure the lenses are fitting both eyes properly and that the health of the eyes is not harmed by the contact lenses.