The idea that there is an association between cognitive impairment and eye conditions that cause vision impairment is not new. The association has been blurred, however, by the fact that age-related eye conditions are often concurrent with systemic health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and depression, all of which are also risk factors for dementia.

Research published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology has revealed that age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and diabetes-related eye disease are independently associated with a higher risk of dementia from any cause.

The UK Biobank Study

The international team of researchers in the UK Biobank study examined the health data for 12,364 British adults aged 55 to 73. The participants were assessed in 2006 and 2010, and their health information was tracked until the beginning of 2021. The team found that:

• More than 2,300 participants had a documented diagnosis of dementia. 
• Those with AMD had a 26% risk increase for developing dementia. 
• Those with cataracts had an 11% risk increase. 
• Those with diabetes-related eye disease had a 61% risk increase.
• Glaucoma was not associated with a significant risk increase.

Participants with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, or depression, were also at significant risk for dementia, and the risk was highest for those who had an underlying health condition and an eye disease at the same time. 

Encouraging News from Alzheimer’s Research UK

While the findings concerning eye disease and dementia may not seem encouraging, good news has come from another direction. A report from non-profit organization Alzheimer’s Research UK states that public support for, and willingness to get involved in, medical research is at an “all-time high.” Of 1,000 adults surveyed across England, Wales, and Scotland:

• 69% would be willing to get involved with dementia research vs. 50% a year ago.
• 29% felt more open to participating in medical research in general due to the pandemic.

Hilary Evans, chief executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, is thrilled with the survey results, stating, “This is positive news for the thousands of studies waiting to get underway to help understand and tackle health conditions like dementia, cancer, and heart disease.”

*Gregory, A. (2021, Sep. 13). Millions with Eye Conditions at Higher Risk of Dementia, Shows Research. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/sep/14/millions-with-eye-conditions-at-higher-risk-of-dementia-shows-research