Vision loss may be directly associated with the development of dementia

Scientists from the University of Michigan and other institutions have found that vision loss in people over the age of 71 may be directly related to their dementia.

Recently, a study entitled "Objectively Measured Visual Impairment and Dementia Prevalence in Older Adults in the US" published in the international journal JAMA Ophthalmology, scientists from the University of Michigan and other institutions found that the vision loss of people over 71 years old may be directly related to their dementia.

In the article, the researchers analyzed data from nearly 3,000 U.S. people over the age of 71 from a larger study (NHATS) that measured participants' visual acuity and recorded their scores on near vision, distance vision, and the ability to distinguish objects in different contexts. At the same time, the researchers also found out whether the participants had dementia from the NHATS study data. They found that participants with reduced vision might be more likely to develop dementia than people with normal vision.

Up to 40% of dementia cases are affected by 12 risk factors that we can prevent or influence, such as smoking, high blood pressure and hearing loss; Currently, vision loss is not one of these 12 important risk factors, but the latest research evidence suggests that there may be a link between vision loss and dementia. Researcher Dr Susan Mitchell said this is a critical time for dementia research, as more and more research evidence reveals a link between factors such as vision loss and dementia, and studies such as this are essential to identify possible new dementia risk factors and ultimately find how to potentially prevent some dementia cases in the first place.

Picture resource：https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/article-abstract/2807125

This latest study provides important new evidence linking vision loss to dementia, as well as previous studies. But this is not conclusive, and it is important for future research to elucidate exactly what causes this apparent association, as it may help determine what, if any, may have some potential for prevention. There are several possibilities, such as diabetes being a key risk factor for dementia, which can also lead to vision problems, or that there may be common pathways in the brain that can lead to vision loss and memory and thinking skills.

Researchers say some cases of vision loss are actually preventable, while others can be successfully treated, and if this relationship is confirmed, it may mean that as people age, taking steps to minimize vision problems may also help reduce their risk of diseases such as dementia. At the same time, we can all take action to protect the health of our brains, from keeping our heart healthy to enjoying new activities and social interactions.

In summary, the results suggest that all objectively measured VI types may be associated with a higher incidence of dementia, and since most VIs are preventable, prioritizing visual health may be important to optimize cognitive function in the brain.

Article source: "iNature"

Keywords: vision loss; dementia