Since completion of the human genome project many diseases that we didn't suspect have been found to be genetic. With regard to ARMD there are three genes that account for 90% of the cases of ARMD. Unfortunately at present the tests to determine if a person carries any of these genes is not available except in limited research settings.
Remember that people with out the genes can get ARMD and people with the genes may not have it (failurre of the gene to express itself) or it may be a very mild case.
JCH MD
The influence of family history is that strong?
No way to tell. You are doing most things right. ARMD is a hereditary condition and if there are multiple individuals in your family with the problem and their vision failed as they grew older the prognosis is not as good as if few or noone has ARMD and they retain good vision as they age.
Other things you can do: don't smoke, don't get fat, protect your eyes from sunlight and take 2 or 3 enteric coated fish oil (Omega 3) pills/day. (take one per day for one week with your evening meal then add one each week with each meal.
JCH MD