Vision loss: The hidden risk factor for dementia and the preventative steps you can take now
Could vision loss be a risk factor for dementia? A recent article in the San Francisco Chronicle highlighted a growing link between eye health issues—such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration—to an increased risk of dementia.
Suchismita Acharya, Ph.D., assistant professor of pharmacology and neuroscience at UNT Health Fort Worth, and a researcher at the North Texas Eye Research Institute, has extensively studied the relationship between glaucomatous optic neuropathy and Alzheimer’s disease. She said emerging research is shedding light on the link between the eyes and the brain: vision problems may increase the risk of cognitive decline.
“Scientists are beginning to understand how treating common eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma could play a significant role in protecting brain health, and how eye care might become a powerful tool in early detection and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases,” Acharya said.
Why would eyesight issues affect the brain, and how serious is this link?
Vision and brain health are deeply interconnected. The eyes are not just passive organs—they are direct extensions of the brain. When vision deteriorates, the brain receives less sensory input, which may accelerate cognitive decline due to reduced mental stimulation. Recent studies suggest that people with untreated vision problems face a significantly higher risk of developing dementia, possibly because poor eyesight leads to social isolation, reduced mobility and less engagement with the environment—all of which are known risk factors for cognitive decline.
While the link is still being studied, it is becoming increasingly clear that visual impairment is not just a quality-of-life issue—it could be a warning sign or contributing factor in cognitive decline.
Is it true that treating eye conditions like cataracts or glaucoma could help delay or prevent memory loss?
Yes, there is growing evidence that treating certain eye conditions may benefit brain health. For instance, cataract surgery has been associated with slower cognitive decline and even reduced risk of dementia in some studies. The theory is that restoring vision helps people stay mentally and socially active, which in turn supports overall cognitive function.
Glaucoma, on the other hand, affects the optic nerve directly and may be linked to neurodegeneration. While treating glaucoma might not reverse damage, managing it early could reduce stress on the visual and nervous systems, which may potentially help preserve brain function.
Should eye care be more integrated into dementia prevention plans—and how can eye professionals help?
Absolutely. Vision screening and eye care should be part of a more holistic approach to cognitive health, especially for older adults. Optometrists and ophthalmologists are in a unique position to detect early changes that could signal neurological issues. For example, subtle shifts in visual processing or eye movement can sometimes be early indicators of conditions like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.
With regular eye exams, practitioners can not only help maintain visual health but also contribute to early detection and multidisciplinary care for cognitive decline.
Can eye scans really detect early signs of cognitive decline—and are they coming to clinics soon?
Yes, this is an exciting area of research. The retina shares developmental and structural similarities with brain tissue, so changes in retinal blood vessels or nerve fiber thickness might reflect early signs of brain degeneration. Advanced imaging techniques like optical coherence tomography are already being used in research to study these changes.
While it is not yet a standard clinical tool for diagnosing cognitive decline, the hope is that within the next few years, retinal scans could become part of routine screenings for at-risk populations. It is a non-invasive, fast and relatively inexpensive method with a lot of potential.
What everyday steps can protect both vision and brain health?
There are several simple, evidence-based habits that support both cognitive and visual function:
- Get regular eye exams – Catching and treating problems early is crucial.
- Stay mentally and socially active – Reading, puzzles and socializing help keep the brain and vision systems engaged.
- Eat a brain- and eye-friendly diet – Include leafy greens, fatty fish, berries and foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3s and lutein.
- Exercise regularly – Physical activity improves blood flow to both the brain and the eyes.
- Manage chronic conditions – High blood pressure, diabetes and smoking all raise risks for both vision loss and dementia.
- Protect your eyes – Wear sunglasses and safety gear when needed to reduce damage from UV light or injury.
Taking care of your eyes is not just about seeing clearly—it’s also a vital part of maintaining your brain’s health and independence as you age.