Cataracts and Depressive Symptoms

A three-year prospective study shows that cataracts were associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms in the elderly. Interestingly, the association was not found with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or glaucoma. The research, conducted at the University of Ottawa's School of Epidemiology and Public Health, did not discover the cause of depressive symptoms in elderly cataracts patients.

"Some older adults are able to adapt well to vision loss, adopting a resilient attitude and positive coping skills," said Ellen Freeman, Ph.D., and colleagues. "However, other older adults struggle to accept and adapt to their vision loss and are at risk of depression."

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"Cataracts Linked to Depressive Symptoms in Elderly"