New Research Shows Connection Between Poor Vision and Dementia Risk
A recent study conducted by the Kellogg Eye Center at Michigan Medicine, the University of Michigan’s academic medical center, has added further evidence to the theory that issues with sight could be linked to the onset of dementia. The study, which involved nearly 3,000 older adults, found that individuals who performed poorly on vision tests, even while using their glasses or contact lenses, also had concerning scores on cognitive tests.
The participants in the study were over the age of 71, with an average age of 77. They underwent various tests to assess their vision, including up-close and distance vision, as well as their ability to see letters that didn’t contrast strongly with their background.
The results revealed that the risk of dementia was much higher among those with eyesight problems, including individuals who weren’t able to see well even when wearing their corrective eyewear. Just over 12% of the group had dementia, but the percentage was significantly higher among those who had impaired vision for seeing up close. One-third of those with moderate or severe distance vision impairment showed signs of dementia, as did 26% of those who had trouble seeing letters that didn’t contrast strongly against a background.
Furthermore, the study found that people with moderate to severe distance vision issues were 72% more likely to have dementia compared to those without vision issues. This correlation suggests that optimizing vision health may be key to slowing cognitive decline and reducing the risk of dementia.
Dr. Mark Peterson, the lead researcher of the study, explained that the findings reinforce the growing body of evidence supporting a link between vision and dementia. “Equitable access to vision care services is important for those experiencing cognitive decline,” he added.
The study was funded by the National Institute on Aging and an unrestricted grant to the U-M Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. As further research is needed to fully understand the connection between poor vision and dementia, this study sheds light on the potential importance of vision health in preventing cognitive decline.
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