Poor vision that goes untreated is associated with cognitive decline, particularly Alzheimer's disease. Researchers from the University of Michigan, using Medicare data for 625 seniors, found those with vision problems who did not visit an ophthalmologist had a 9.5-fold increased risk of Alzheimer's disease.”Our results indicate that it is important for elderly individuals with visual problems to seek medical attention so that the causes of the problems can be identified and treated,” says Mary Rogers, PhD. The types of vision treatment that were helpful in lowering the risk of dementia were surgery to correct cataracts and treatments for glaucoma, retinal disorders and other eye-related problems, she says. Rogers is a research assistant professor of internal medicine.
A theory about the association: visual disorders can interfere not only with normal mobility but other activities that may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. These include reading, playing board games, other mentally stimulating activities and social networking.
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