What aspect of vision is primarily affected by macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration primarily affects central vision, which is essential for activities that require detail and focus, such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces. The macula, a small area located in the retina at the back of the eye, is responsible for high-resolution, central vision. In macular degeneration, this area deteriorates, leading to a progressive loss of clarity and detail in the central visual field, while peripheral vision typically remains intact. This condition can significantly impact a person's ability to perform daily tasks that rely on sharp central vision, making it a critical aspect of understanding how macular degeneration affects sight.