Which condition is a leading cause of blindness in the elderly?

Macular degeneration is indeed a leading cause of blindness among the elderly, specifically age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This condition affects the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, and it can significantly impair the ability to see fine details. With age, the risk of developing AMD increases, and it often leads to difficulties with daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.

The other conditions listed also affect vision, but they are not as prevalent as macular degeneration in terms of leading to blindness in older adults. Glaucoma involves damage to the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss, but it is usually treatable with medication and often detected early through regular eye exams. Retinitis pigmentosa is a genetic disorder that typically causes night blindness and peripheral vision loss rather than central vision loss that characterizes AMD. Cataracts, while common and can lead to blurred vision, are typically correctable with surgery, hence they are less commonly a direct cause of permanent blindness in the elderly compared to AMD.