Weakened vision reduces the amount of stimulation the brain receives and increases the risk of dementia. People with poor eyesight start to read less because of reading difficulties. Reading less further reduces the amount of stimulation the brain receives…

Dementia is the loss of mental functions such as thinking, remembering and reasoning as a result of damage to brain cells to a level that affects the person’s daily life and activities. The cause of dementia is the loss of activity and death of other brain cells as a result of the inability of previously healthy nerve cells in the human brain to function properly.

Which eye diseases are associated with dementia?

• Diabetic retinopathy (diabetes affecting the eye): 61% higher risk of dementia.
• Age-related macular degeneration (yellow spot disease): 26% higher risk of dementia.
• Cataracts (loss of transparency of the lens inside the eye): 11% higher risk of dementia.

A UK study found that people with conditions such as yellow spot disease, cataracts and diabetes-induced eye disease are more at risk of developing dementia. In the study conducted on 12,364 adults aged 55-73, it was reported that the most risky group was people with diabetes-related eye disease. Researchers reported an 11 percent higher risk of dementia in those with cataracts and a 61 percent higher risk of dementia in those with diabetes-related eye disease, and underlined that eye pressure is not associated with dementia.

Can cataract surgery reduce the risk of dementia?

Yes! A study published in the journal Jama Internal Medicine in 2021 found that cataract surgery reduces the risk of dementia in older adults. A study in 2022 estimated that clear vision and healthy eyes could potentially prevent 100,000 cases of dementia.

How can we help someone with visual impairment and dementia?

• Adjust lighting in the home so that it is bright but not dazzling
• Provide color contrast in areas such as stairs or kitchen for safety
• Keep area corridors and rooms clean and free of obstacles that could cause falls
• Invest in tools and technology that can help
• Provide large print books and audio books
• Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle

What can we do for better eye and brain health?

• Don’t smoke
• Exercise for a total of at least 150 minutes a week
• Eat a healthy diet: Eat lean protein, whole grains, vegetables and fruits
• Maintain a healthy weight, obesity increases the risk of eye and brain diseases
• Sleep at least 7-8 hours a night
• Engage in activities to reduce your stress level
• Get annual check-ups for problems such as blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, which increase the risk of eye and brain disease
• Try to learn new things, engage in activities to keep your mind sharp
• Maintain a strong social network of family and friends
• Prevent eye and head injuries by wearing seat belts in cars and helmets on bicycles
• Wear protective eyewear if necessary at your workplace

July 2024