Routine eye exams are an important part of health care. Especially for seniors. Research shows that untreated vision loss is associated with cognitive decline in older adults. Which can also be the case with untreated hearing loss.
A 2021 article in JAMA, the Journal of the American Medical Association, reports a study of 1,202 participants who were followed for nearly 7 years. Those who scored poorly on vision tests were more likely to experience deficits in memory, language and the ability to identify objects in space. These are indications of a loss of cognitive abilities.
Our senses tend to decrease as we age. Thus ensuring our vision be corrected to the best level possible is important. Poor vision could lead to a greater risk of falls. As well as less enjoyment of the environment around us. And, as this study suggests, poor vision leads to a possible tie to cognitive loss.
The American Academy of Ophthalmologists recommends an eye exam every year or two for adults aged 65 and above. Glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration are the two leading causes of blindness. And both have no noticeable symptoms. Some diseases, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, vitamin deficiencies or an increased risk of stroke, can be identified by the blood vessels in your eyes.
The residents of the BeeHive assisted living homes across Texas are just like family members to our staff. We can coordinate transportation to medical appointments, including eye appointments, for our residents. And we help family members stay informed about those visits.