Getting older causes many changes in your bodily functions and processes. While your memory may be among the first things to be affected, this could also be linked to eye health irregularities.
How Are Vision Problems and Cognitive Decline Related?
A recent study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that a decline in cognitive processes is more likely among individuals 45 years of age and older. Confusion or memory loss are more commonly reported by Americans within this age range. Since the number of individuals with vision problems is expected to increase by 50% over the next 30 years, this means that diagnoses of dementia and other similar conditions are likely to happen as well.
The study’s findings were based on two years’ worth of surveys collated from more than 200,000 respondents that were more than 45 years old. Eighteen percent of the respondents that have vision problems consequently reported problems with cognition. However, your eye doctors noted that only 4% of respondents that didn’t have any visual impairment complained of signs or symptoms of cognitive decline.
Ways to Take Care of Your Aging Eyes
Both cognitive decline and vision problems can significantly decrease your quality of life. That is why it’s important to take steps to maintain your eye health early on in life. Make it a habit to have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. Doing so allows your eye care specialists to manage underlying vision problems and delay their progression.
Your eye care specialists have the knowledge, skills and experience to maintain your eye health. If we find refractive errors during your eye exam, for example, we may recommend Ortho-k to help them see clearer while not having to use corrective eyewear. A simple visit to your eye clinic could make a huge difference in your golden years.
To learn more about taking care of your aging eyes, call us at (714) 486-3315, or complete our form. We serve Costa Mesa, Newport Beach and nearby areas.
