New research suggests that vision loss or hearing loss can increase a person's chance of developing dementia. A team of researchers from the University of Washington found that having both hearing and sight problems increased dementia risk by 86 percent. If an individual loses one of their senses, then their risk is much smaller—11 percent.

"With no treatments yet able to stop the progression of dementia, it is crucial that we understand the different factors that impact risk and what we might be able to do to change them," said Dr. Sara Imarisio, Head of Research at Alzheimer's Research UK. "This research suggests that loss of multiple senses may increase dementia risk. This could help us to identify people at risk earlier and empower individuals to take targeted steps to reduce their risk of dementia.”

Please contact SDCB if you or someone you love can benefit from vision rehabilitation services. We offer many programs that enhance people's ability to lead more independent lives.

"Loss of multiple senses increases dementia risk"