Vision problems can be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease, with loss of visual sensitivity able to predict the condition 12 years before diagnosis. Scientists suggest combining visual processing tests with other neuropsychological tests to improve the identification of future dementia risk. Previous studies have shown that physical changes to the eyes and beta-amyloid plaques in the retina may be indicators of Alzheimer’s disease progression.
Researchers from Loughborough University in the United Kingdom used data from over 8,000 healthy adults who underwent visual sensitivity testing to assess their ability to detect and process visual information accurately and efficiently. Lower scores on the visual sensitivity test were found to be associated with a higher risk of future dementia diagnosis. Combining visual sensitivity assessments with other cognitive and neuropsychological tests may help improve the accuracy of dementia risk prediction and monitoring response to interventions such as exercise.
The study found that individuals with dementia often experience visual processing deficits even in the early stages of the condition. Results indicated that a low score on the visual sensitivity test, particularly when combined with specific memory tests and tests of global cognitive functioning, could indicate future dementia risk on average 12 years before diagnosis. Researchers aim to explore the potential of using visual sensitivity assessments as a tool for monitoring response to interventions and predicting driving skills in people with dementia.
Surgical neuro-ophthalmologist Alexander Solomon notes that the results of the study are consistent with what is seen on a day-to-day basis in clinical practice. Dementia can compromise the brain’s ability to process visual information, leading to a loss of visual sensitivity measured by processing speed and reaction time. Solomon suggests further research into the correlation between visual sensitivity testing results and specific types of dementia, as well as verification of diagnoses by clinicians.
Neurologist Clifford Segil emphasizes the importance of seeing an eye doctor for vision issues before seeing a brain doctor, as elderly patients with vision and hearing problems are often evaluated for dementia. Noting that vision and hearing problems are not always consistent with signs of cognitive decline, Segil suggests that eye exams should be conducted on patients who develop dementia to rule out any issues in front of the optic nerve or in the eyes. Further research is needed to explore the relationship between visual sensitivity, dementia risk, and potential interventions for individuals at risk for or diagnosed with dementia.
Overall, visual sensitivity could be a valuable tool in assessing dementia risk when combined with other cognitive and neuropsychological tests. Early detection of visual processing deficits may help identify individuals at risk for dementia and monitor their response to interventions. Further research is needed to explore the potential applications of visual sensitivity testing in predicting driving skills, correlations with specific types of dementia, and verification of diagnoses by clinicians.
