Most of us think of vision changes as a natural part of aging, but emerging research suggests they may be an early sign of something more serious: dementia. Studies indicate that vision loss, impairment, or even subtle shifts in visual processing could predict dementia up to 12 years before diagnosis, highlighting the importance of maintaining vision health as a potential protective factor for cognitive function.
A recent article from the Cleveland Clinic, featuring insights from neuropsychologist Dr. Aaron Bonner-Jackson, explores the connection between vision changes and dementia risk. Dr. Bonner-Jackson explains that “If you’re not properly processing information visually, that can have an effect on your brain function if you’re not seeing things well or if you’re not properly visually processing.” Inadequate visual processing can limit cognitive stimulation, and when people start withdrawing from daily activities due to poor vision, the brain receives even less stimulation, potentially accelerating cognitive decline.
The Link Between Vision and Brain Health
Vision is integral to how our brain interprets, processes, and navigates the world. Our ability to engage with surroundings—whether through reading, driving, or maintaining spatial awareness—depends heavily on our visual processing skills. Dr. Bonner-Jackson notes that “All those things that are associated with poor brain function, poor brain health and dementia are also associated with vision changes.” This means that conditions affecting brain health, such as diabetes or unmanaged blood pressure, can also impact vision, creating a dual risk for cognitive impairment.
Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia
According to the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention and Care, there are 14 modifiable lifestyle factors that, if addressed, may lower dementia risk by up to 45%. These include:
- Untreated vision and hearing loss
- Social isolation
- Depression
- Diabetes and obesity
- High LDL cholesterol and hypertension
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Physical inactivity
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Exposure to air pollution
- Not completing secondary education
The Cleveland Clinic’s article highlights how these factors are interconnected with cognitive health, as Dr. Bonner-Jackson points out that “Vision changes can trigger further changes that then can lead to dementia, or changes in the brain related to dementia could also have effects on vision. It could go both ways.”
Vision’s Predictive Power for Dementia
In a long-term study involving over 8,600 participants, slower visual processing speeds were noted in individuals who eventually developed dementia. The study required participants to press a space bar upon detecting a shape, measuring both visual processing and reaction times. The results showed that those who developed dementia later had significantly slower response times than those who did not. This underscores the potential role of vision testing as an early dementia predictor, helping healthcare providers and individuals manage risk more proactively.
Do Vision Problems Always Signal Dementia?
While vision changes are linked to an increased risk of dementia, they do not automatically indicate future cognitive decline. Dr. Bonner-Jackson advises that regular vision check-ups are essential for reducing this risk. He emphasizes, “We want to help people keep their vision as healthy as possible for as long as possible because we know that those who have poor vision are much more likely to have cognitive decline in dementia.” Addressing vision issues, whether through corrective lenses or treating conditions like cataracts and glaucoma, may serve as a practical way to support long-term cognitive health.
In addition to regular checkups, at-home screening options, like SuperSenses, provide a convenient way to monitor changes in vision and other senses. SuperSenses allows you to stay proactive about sensory health from the comfort of home, helping you catch early signs of sensory decline that might otherwise go unnoticed. By integrating regular screenings with in-office exams, you can take a comprehensive approach to maintaining both sensory and cognitive health.