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Recent research has established a connection between vision and the later diagnosis of dementia. Scientists have discovered that visual sensitivity tests have the potential to predict dementia up to 12 years before it is clinically diagnosed. While neurologists believe that more research is necessary before these tests can be used for early detection of the disease, the eyes’ close connection to the brain allows for the quick processing of visual stimuli. This connection may also reveal subtle signs of dementia, enabling early intervention.
A study published in the journal Scientific Reports highlights the importance of this research. With nearly 10% of American adults aged 65 and above affected by dementia and anticipated future increases in rates, this information is crucial for healthcare professionals. Experts such as Clifford Segil, D.O., a neurologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA; Bavand Youssefzadeh, D.O., an ophthalmologist at Global Lasik and Cataract Institute in Huntington Beach, CA; and Amit Sachdev, M.D., M.S., medical director in the Department of Neurology at Michigan State University emphasize the significance of understanding the link between vision changes and dementia.
The study monitored 8,623 healthy individuals in Norfolk, England, over several years, with 537 participants eventually receiving a dementia diagnosis. Participants underwent a visual sensitivity test at the study’s commencement to assess visual processing speed. Those who were later diagnosed with dementia exhibited slower visual processing compared to those who did not develop the condition.
The findings suggest that combining visual processing tests with other neuropsychological assessments could enhance the identification of individuals at risk of developing dementia. While visual sensitivity changes may be an early indicator of dementia, it is essential to note that this association is more complex than the need for updated glasses prescriptions, as it involves memory and cognitive functions.
Various factors, such as amyloid plaques impacting brain regions associated with vision and difficulties in contrast perception and color differentiation, may contribute to the link between visual sensitivity and dementia. The challenges in ignoring visual distractions and processing visual stimuli in individuals with dementia can also affect eye movements. Therefore, these vision-related signs may manifest before evident memory issues emerge. Medical professionals are now recognizing the importance of assessing vision in dementia evaluation and management.”
When it comes to dementia prevention and screening, Dr. Segil emphasizes the importance of addressing hearing rather than focusing on visual issues. Research has shown that using hearing aids can slow cognitive decline in individuals at high risk of developing dementia. Dr. Segil recommends sending individuals for hearing tests as a routine practice, rather than for new glasses. However, he points out that current eye exams primarily focus on identifying signs of conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension, which can contribute to dementia risk over time.
Although visual processing issues are not typically part of standard eye exams at present, Dr. Bavand Youssefzadeh, an ophthalmologist at Global Lasik and Cataract Institute in Huntington Beach, CA, believes that visual sensitivity tests may become more prevalent in eye care settings with further research. Dr. Youssefzadeh anticipates that this area will be explored more in the future.
Dementia is commonly associated with memory problems, but different types of memory can be affected in the early stages of the condition. Dr. Amit Sachdev, medical director in the Department of Neurology at Michigan State University, emphasizes that the initial signs of dementia depend on the type of memory that is first impacted. The National Institute on Aging lists various symptoms of dementia, including memory loss, judgment issues, communication difficulties, and behavioral changes.
Dr. Segil highlights the importance of monitoring individuals for difficulties in driving and financial management as potential indicators of cognitive decline. He acknowledges the significance of recent research on visual sensitivity but stresses the need for further investigation to understand its practical implications for patient care.
