New Light-Based Therapy Slows Macular Degeneration
Adults in Chico now have access to a 10-minute treatment designed to slow the progression of vision loss.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Alzheimer’s
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North Valley Eye Care in Chico has introduced the Valeda machine, a device that uses targeted light frequencies to help slow vision loss in patients with macular degeneration. The procedure is intended for adults 55 and older, a population that includes more than 20 million Americans.
Why it matters
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss for adults 55 and older, and because no cure exists, interventions that slow disease progression are critical. This new technology provides a way for local patients to manage the impact of the non-hereditary condition.
The Valeda machine uses light frequencies to treat the retina, targeting a condition that affects over 20 million Americans. Whether this approach offers sustained benefits compared to existing standard-of-care treatments remains under investigation.
The players
Joel Barthellow
A physician who introduced the Valeda technology at his local practice.
North Valley Eye Care
A Chico-based ophthalmology clinic providing retinal care services.
Jim Hauenstein
An 86-year-old patient who received treatment with the new technology.
The details
The Valeda device delivers specific light frequencies directly into the retina to slow the progression of macular degeneration. During the procedure, light is directed into each eye twice in a session that takes less than 10 minutes to complete. North Valley Eye Care currently operates five of these machines to support patient treatment.
Timeline
October 2026
Health Landscape
Macular degeneration remains the leading cause of vision loss in older adults, and therapeutic options remain focused on slowing disease progression rather than achieving a cure. This facility adoption follows a broader trend of integrating retinal light-frequency technology into specialized care.
If you are an adult over 55 experiencing signs of vision loss, it is worth discussing with your doctor whether light-based retinal therapies are appropriate for your specific diagnosis. Early consultation can help you understand the limitations of current treatments and the reality that no cure for the condition exists.
The takeaway
Because macular degeneration has no cure, the primary goal of modern treatment is to slow vision loss effectively. Ask your primary eye doctor about the stage of your condition and whether new technology or lifestyle modifications could help preserve your remaining vision.
Further reading
For more information on managing age-related retinal and cognitive health, visit our Alzheimer’s section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Action News Now.
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