[Smile Doctor Yeom Sabu TV] Is Cataract a Precursor to Dementia?!

Hello everyone.

The long rainy season has ended, and it's now a scorching hot Tuesday in August with a heatwave warning.

Since there are many days with strong UV rays, it's best to protect yourself from the sun by using sunglasses, parasols, or hats when going out.

Today, I'd like to tell you about the close relationship between cataracts and dementia.

As we live our lives, we often forget things.

‘Where did I put that object? What was I trying to do?’

When these instances of forgetfulness become more frequent and we get older,

they can lead to dementia.

Did you know that dementia symptoms can be accelerated by cataracts?

Based on patients with poor eyesight,

an analysis showed that

the incidence of dementia was 64% higher compared to those with good eyesight, and among them, elderly individuals with progressing cataracts had a 1.4 times higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to the general population.

A study comparing 92 normal individuals with an average age of 78 and no cognitive decline,

before and after undergoing bilateral cataract surgery,

showed an improvement in MMSE scores six months after the surgery.

Here, MMSE stands for

Mini-Mental State Examination,

which is a screening test for cognitive function and dementia assessment in the elderly.

Patients who underwent cataract surgery

not only improved their vision but also their cognitive function!

When vision deteriorates, the deterioration of sensory organs can also lead to a decline in brain function.

Therefore, if presbyopia or cataracts are progressing,

the complacent thought of ‘I'll just wear reading glasses’ is a NO!

Among middle-aged and older adults, some occasionally forget things in their daily lives.

To check if this might be an early symptom of dementia,

or if there's anything wrong with your eyes,

it's recommended that individuals aged 40 and above visit an ophthalmologist at least once a year for a detailed examination.

▲ Want to see a more detailed video?!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does cataract affect the onset of dementia?

Yes, it can. Patients with poor vision showed a 64% higher incidence of dementia compared to those with good vision, and elderly individuals with progressing cataracts had a 1.4 times higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease than the general population.

Can cataract surgery help improve cognitive function?

Yes, it can. A study on normal individuals with an average age of 78 and no cognitive decline showed an improvement in MMSE scores six months after bilateral cataract surgery.

What is the MMSE test?

MMSE stands for Mini-Mental State Examination, which is a screening test for cognitive function. It is used to assess cognitive function and dementia in the elderly.

Can vision loss affect brain function?

Yes, it can. When vision deteriorates, it can lead to the deterioration of other sensory organs, which in turn can cause a decline in brain function.

Should I get an eye exam if I have cataracts or presbyopia?

Yes, regular eye exams are recommended. It is advisable for individuals aged 40 and above to visit an ophthalmologist at least once a year for a detailed examination to check eye health and for any early symptoms of dementia.