A recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology from the Kellogg Eye Center at Michigan Medicine and the University of Michigan’s academic medical center suggests a strong connection between vision problems and dementia in older adults. The study involved nearly 3,000 participants over the age of 71 and found that the risk of dementia was significantly higher in individuals with vision issues, including those who had difficulty seeing even with corrective glasses or lenses. Specifically, 22% of those with impaired close-up vision had dementia, and 33% of those with moderate to severe distance vision impairment showed signs of dementia. Adjusted for other factors, those with moderate to severe distance vision issues were 72% more likely to have dementia. The study emphasizes the importance of prioritizing vision health to potentially mitigate cognitive decline and reduce dementia risk. Equitable access to vision care services is highlighted as a valuable goal, especially for individuals experiencing cognitive decline.