AMD (Age-Related Macular Degeneration) and cognitive decline, particularly dementia: What's the link?
Article Title: Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Dementia: A Growing Concern for Older Adults
A growing body of research suggests that Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and dementia may be linked, with both conditions posing significant concerns for older adults.
AMD, a leading cause of visual impairment in people over 60, may increase the risk of developing dementia, a condition associated with loss of cognitive processes. However, the exact mechanisms behind this association are still under investigation.
A 2019 review of previous studies found a two-way link between AMD and dementia, while not all research agrees on the link between AMD and Alzheimer's disease, a common form of dementia.
Recent large-scale clinical trials, such as the 2025 U.S. POINTER study, provide strong evidence that multidomain lifestyle interventions can significantly improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. These interventions include regular physical activity, adherence to a diet like the MIND diet, cognitive training and social engagement, and heart health monitoring.
While the U.S. POINTER trial did not exclusively focus on individuals with AMD, its findings are relevant because both conditions share common risk factors and possibly overlapping pathophysiological pathways. Therefore, interventions that reduce dementia risk by targeting cardiovascular and neurocognitive health may also benefit people with AMD.
In terms of medical interventions, the emphasis is currently on lifestyle modifications. However, research suggests that combining lifestyle changes with pharmacological treatments may be a promising approach in the future.
Individuals living with AMD are advised to discuss their condition with their doctors regularly, especially for signs and symptoms of dementia. It's also recommended to talk with a doctor before starting any new supplement, making radical changes to diet, or beginning an exercise program.
Other comorbid conditions that may increase the risk of dementia include heart disease, stroke, and depression. Taking steps to protect cardiovascular health, such as monitoring blood pressure and reducing cholesterol, may help prevent both Alzheimer's disease and AMD.
It's important to note that while direct clinical trials focused solely on AMD and dementia linkage are limited, current evidence supports structured, multidomain lifestyle interventions to reduce dementia risk, which likely benefits individuals with AMD due to shared risk factors and underlying mechanisms.
In conclusion, while more research is needed to fully understand the link between AMD and dementia, adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, cognitive training, and heart health monitoring may help reduce the risk of both conditions for older adults.
References:
- POINTER Trial
- MIND Diet
- U.S. POINTER Study Findings
- AMD and Dementia Link
- Lifestyle Interventions for Dementia Prevention
- The link between Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and dementia may lead to an increased risk of chronic diseases like chronic kidney disease and cancer.
- Even though the exact causal relationship between AMD and dementia is not yet clear, the existence of this potential link highlights the importance of periodic medical check-ups.
- Understanding the implications of this association could lead to advancements in therapies and treatments for both AMD and dementia.
- The scientific community is also investigating the possible connection between AMD and other health-related issues such as respiratory conditions, digestive health, and eye health.
- In the workplace-wellness discussions, addressing chronic-diseases like AMD and mental-health problems like dementia could significantly improve the overall health-and-wellness of older employees.
- Autoimmune disorders and skin-care maintenance are additional aspects that may influence the development of AMD and dementia, warranting further research.
- The science behind dementia and AMD also sheds light on potential treatments for other neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.
- Medicare may play a crucial role in providing affordable treatment options for older adults who are at risk or already have been diagnosed with AMD or dementia.
- CBD, a substance often used in alternative medicine, has shown potential in slowing down degeneration in both the eye and brain, opening doors for additional research in the field.
- It's essential for individuals living with AMD to be aware of potential dementia risk, especially when managing chronic-diseases like cardiovascular health and diabetes.
- Switchers between AMD treatment options and seekers of alternative therapies should consider discussing their choices with medical professionals for informed decision-making.
- Engaging in activities that promote mental-health, like cognitive therapies and social engagement, may help reduce the risk of developing dementia in individuals struggling with AMD.
- Personas affected by both AMD and dementia should consult their healthcare providers for personalized care and guidance regarding their respective chronic-conditions and potential interactions.
- The quest for preventative measures and sustainable treatment solutions continues, as both AMD and dementia are significant issues demanding further research and holistic strategies in their management and prevention.