Mind Your Eyes and Cholesterol: New Clues to Dodge Dementia

Dementia research is moving fast. Now, scientists have spotted two new risks: high cholesterol after 40 and untreated vision loss. These join a list of 12 other risks, like smoking and lack of exercise. Together, they cause nearly half of all dementia cases worldwide. High cholesterol and vision loss might seem unrelated, but they're connected. Poor vision can lead to less brain-stimulating activities, like reading or socializing. These activities help keep the brain healthy. Meanwhile, high cholesterol can harm blood vessels in the brain, leading to neuron damage and dementia. But don't worry, there's hope. A good primary care doctor can help manage these risks. They can work with specialists to control cholesterol, blood pressure, and other health issues. The earlier you start, the better. Even if you're already dealing with dementia, managing these risks can slow it down. It's never too late to make changes. Whether you're young, old, or already diagnosed with dementia, improving your health can help. So, take care of your eyes, watch your cholesterol, and stay active. Your brain will thank you.