A new study indicates that there is very likely a link between vision loss and the development of dementia.
This new line of research found that seniors with untreated vision loss issues were more than twice as likely to develop cognitive impairments. This was one of the first major studies to examine the link between vision issues and dementia, and the results were quite surprising. There’s a strong link between the two, but little available information at this point regarding why.
There are almost 6 million people in the U.S. right now that have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Making life better for these people is important, especially as some estimates say that in the next 40 years, the number of people with this disease may triple. That’s a lot of cases of Alzheimer’s–a degenerative disease without a cure. Taking more effective steps to prevent it when possible is important.
Regardless of someone’s cognitive health, regular vision checkups are part of a healthy life. Many of us have this done during our yearly physical checkup, but as we get older, a little bit more than this is needed. Although a primary care physician can test for things like glaucoma in the office, many don’t have the equipment to fully evaluate ocular health. Working with a specialist can help to cover up any gaps in examinations that might occur and identify vision problems and eye health issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. This research hints that perhaps better eye care might equal far better health results than once thought.
This was a literature review study. The researchers went through over a dozen previously published studies and compiled data from more than 76,000 people that had been examined. Big studies like this tend to have higher degrees of accuracy associated with them. The team published their findings in the journal, Aging & Mental Health. Hopefully, this is just one of many studies that helps illuminate one more thing that can be done to help seniors alleviate the risk of developing dementia as they age.
What is unclear about this study is just why this link occurs. Hopefully, this study leads to more research into the subject matter. If treating vision loss effectively can help to prevent or improve upon cases of dementia, then this is just the first step toward helping to improve the quality of life that they face. No one wants to see a loved one struggling with dementia or any other health issues. This study might help provide clues with things that can be done to more easily prevent it from negatively impacting anyone’s life.
If you have questions about getting connected to care and how it might benefit your family, please let us know. Our trained staff members are happy to help answer questions, go through your personal situation and needs, and get you pointed in the right direction to help your family meet your unique goals.
Give us a call today. We would love to talk more during a free consultation session. There’s no obligation on your part, and there’s no pressure. The only thing you have to lose is to walk away with a little bit more information regarding senior care and how it might help your loved ones to live a better life.
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