Seniors suffer from a wide range of conditions, with vision loss and depression being among the most common. Recently, doctors have found that there’s a correlation between these two conditions. Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic, a top optometrist in the state, elaborates on the findings below.
Higher Risk of Depression
The U.S. National Health and Aging Trends Study has found that individuals with vision problems are at a higher risk of suffering from depression and anxiety. The study revealed that 31 percent of people with vision problems reported symptoms relating to depression versus the 13 percent among those without vision problems.
The interesting part of the study was that individuals who have exhibited symptoms of depression had a 37% higher chance of experiencing vision problems in the future than those who didn’t exhibit any symptoms of depression.
The Factors at Play
Keep in mind that correlation does not mean causation. The study does not suggest that either condition necessarily leads to the other, but it does show there is a discernible pattern between the two.
Seniors at Risk
As people age, they become more vulnerable to vision problems and, consequently, depression. One of the leading causes of blindness among older people is glaucoma. Scientists have yet to map out the interaction between various factors, which may include genetics, lifestyle and diet, that leads to this correlation. One thing that’s clear is that it’s worth going to a general physician or optometrist now to minimize the risk of suffering from vision problems later on.
Don’t Have an Optometrist yet?
Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic, a top optometrist in the state, offers a wide range of eye care services. To set up an appointment with one of our eye specialists, call (425) 485-0430 or (425) 771-8472. We serve homeowners in Bothell, Lynnwood and Shoreline, WA.