DUNEDIN, New Zealand — Researchers have unveiled a potential link between early signs of eye health issues and the risk of developing dementia, revealing that individuals with certain visual disturbances may face an elevated risk as early as their 40s. A study conducted by experts at the University of Otago examined the relationship between retinal thinning and cognitive decline, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive eye health assessments.
The research analyzed data from the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study, a long-running project that has tracked the health of 900 New Zealanders for over four decades. Participants underwent a range of cognitive tests and eye examinations at various ages, with keen focus on their retinal health. Findings indicate that those exhibiting thinner retinal tissue were significantly more likely to experience cognitive decline around age 45, a precursor to dementia.
Retinal thinning can lead to visual distortions, such as seeing spots or flashes of light, and may also disrupt color perception. The researchers identified additional risk factors, including signs of narrowed arteries and expanded veins within the eye. These vascular issues suggest inadequate blood flow to both the eyes and the brain, which could be instrumental in the development of dementia.
Dr. Ashleigh Barrett-Young, a psychology researcher involved in the study, pointed out that poor circulation could serve as an overarching risk factor for dementia, heart attacks, and strokes. She highlighted the potential of routine eye exams as a practical means of identifying individuals who may be at risk for cognitive disorders. Early detection is considered vital, as timely interventions can alleviate symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent form of dementia, often manifests through memory loss, challenges in reasoning, and difficulties with language, with symptoms that intensify over time. In the U.K., around 900,000 individuals are currently living with this debilitating condition, which affects not only the elderly but also a smaller yet significant portion of younger adults.
The study suggests that assessing blood vessel health in the eyes could provide a cost-effective and straightforward approach to evaluate dementia risk among middle-aged individuals. However, the researchers caution that while this imaging can indicate potential risks, it cannot serve as a definitive diagnosis.
In addition to eye health, the research also pointed to the size of the temporalis muscle, associated with jaw movement, as another factor linked to dementia risk. A reduction in muscle mass, referred to as sarcopenia, may correlate with a greater likelihood of cognitive decline.
Approximately 7.5% of people living with dementia in the U.K. experience symptoms before the age of 65, with Alzheimer’s being a leading cause among younger individuals. As cognitive impairments become increasingly prevalent, understanding and targeting potential indicators like retinal health could be key to improving outcomes and extending quality of life for those at risk.