NMW: The Link Between Eye Health and Dementia Prevention

NMW and its Findings on Dementia

NMW's recent study reveals that nearly 1 in 5 dementia cases may link to vision impairment. Dementia, characterized by impaired memory and decision-making, is often associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Conducted by the Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, researchers found a significant association between visual health and dementia incidences.

Details from the Study

Among 2,767 participants over 65, the study noted that up to 19% of dementia cases correlated with vision impairment. This issue was more pronounced among older women and non-Hispanic white individuals. Vision impairments evaluated included:

• Near Acuity
• Distance Acuity
• Contrast Sensitivity

Approximately 5% of dementia cases connected to distance acuity, nearly 10% to near acuity, and 15% to contrast sensitivity. Importantly, researchers emphasized that over 90% of vision impairments are preventable or correctable, pointing to the need for further research in this area.

Ongoing Research and Implications

In addition to the eye health findings, earlier research indicated potential links between medications like Ozempic and dementia risk reductions, emphasizing a growing interest in prevention strategies.