As Canada’s senior population increases, the Alzheimer Society of Canada estimates that nearly one million Canadians will have dementia by 2030. Getty Images
New research reveals that vision loss and high cholesterol are now recognized as significant risk factors for dementia. This finding comes from a comprehensive review published in a leading medical journal, highlighting 14 key modifiable risks for dementia. While many of these risks, like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, are already known, vision loss and high cholesterol were previously overlooked.
The review, conducted by the 2024 Lancet Commission on Dementia, analyzed data from millions of participants. It suggests that untreated vision problems and high cholesterol levels can contribute to the development of dementia. This research is particularly timely given the growing senior population. The Alzheimer Society of Canada estimates that nearly one million Canadians will have dementia by 2030. Globally, the number of people with dementia is expected to exceed 153 million by 2050, more than double the 2019 figure.
Dr. Samir Sinha, director of geriatrics at Mount Sinai, underscores that while aging is a natural process, many dementia cases might be preventable by addressing these 14 risk factors. He points out that just as hearing loss has been linked to dementia, vision loss is now considered a critical factor. “When our senses aren’t properly maintained, it reduces the sensory input to our brains,” he explains, which could impair brain function over time.
The Lancet review also notes that cataract surgery could reduce dementia risk by about 30% for individuals aged 65 and older. This suggests that correcting vision issues might be an effective way to lower the likelihood of developing dementia. Additionally, managing high cholesterol through regular exercise, such as daily walks, can help prevent artery blockages in the brain, which is crucial for brain health. “Maintaining a healthy heart supports a healthy brain,” Sinha says, emphasizing that even modest physical activity can be beneficial.
However, not all risk factors can be managed individually. Factors like air pollution and limited education will need broader public health interventions. Genetics and aging remain significant and unchangeable risks. Moreover, the shortage of primary care providers and specialists in Canada complicates efforts to address these issues effectively. With more than six million Canadians lacking a family doctor, systemic changes in public health are crucial. Sinha stresses the importance of improving access to healthcare so that people can manage conditions like high cholesterol with professional help.
