“Ignored” test CUTS your dementia risk

If dementia runs in your family, you’re already on heightened alert for any of the tell-tale “warning signs” of this life-shattering disease.

Memory loss… trouble communicating… lack of concentration.

Those are just a SLIVER of the early symptoms associated with dementia.

Unfortunately, many of these warning signs aren’t so cut-and-dry… and for a disease with NO CURE, that means too many folks are diagnosed with no knowledge on how to lower their risk.

But today I’ve got NEW research on how an OLD test can stack the odds back in your favor and help lessen your risk of a dementia diagnosis.

The only problem?

Millions of Americans flat out IGNORE this oh-so-simple (and routine) test that could literally help save your brain.

Scientists now believe vision loss is one of the BIGGEST risk factors for dementia.

In fact, a recent study found that fixing ANY vision problems – can stop the process in the brain that leads to cognitive struggles and dementia.

The study researchers concluded that nearly one in 50 dementia cases could be PREVENTED just by getting regular eye exams and taking steps to rectify any issues.

One out of 50 doesn’t seem like a lot, but that equates to about 100,000 dementia cases.

But here’s the problem…

According to data from the CDC, nearly 40% of adults with signs of vision loss DIDN’T see an eye doctor or get an eye exam within the last year!

Now, of course getting a routine eye exam isn’t a surefire way to stop – or cure – dementia.

But this latest study highlights how mitigating MODIFIABLE risk factors (aka the things within your control) can reduce the risk of dementia.

Study leaders noted that vision impairment has long been known as a risk factor for dementia.

But this is the first time that a study has determined that improving vision can be proactively improved or repaired – thus categorizing it as a modifiable risk factor of reducing dementia.

Another common modifiable dementia risk factor is hearing loss. People with hearing loss tend to withdraw socially – and social engagement is crucial to keeping cognitively sharp.

The team behind the new study believes vision loss may shut down parts of the brain in a similar way. (And, it’s worth noting that, just as we see in folks with hearing loss, vision loss can also lead to social withdrawal.

So, even if you think you have your vision under control, don’t skip those regular eye exams.

Your brain will thank you.

To reducing ANY dementia risk,
Sarah Reagan

Sources:

George, Judy. “Dementia Prevalence May Be Reduced by Improving Vision.” https://www.medpagetoday.com/neurology/dementia/98382

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Four in 10 US Adults Are at High Risk for Vision Loss.” https://www.cdc.gov/visionhealth/resources/publications/high-risk-vision-loss.html