Vision loss, high cholesterol are risk factors for Alzheimer’s

Two new risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease have been identified.

Dr. Jessica Caldwell, a neuropsychologist with the Cleveland Clinic, said they are vision loss and high LDL cholesterol, which can add on to medical risks such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Caldwell said she is not sure why those two health factors could play a role in a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s.

“It’s possible vision loss could impact a person’s sensory input, meaning their brain is not processing as much information, vision loss could also make it harder for a person to exercise, socialize with family and friends or do other stimulating activities,” she said.

High cholesterol is not good for our heart and blood vessels. Our brain has a lot of small vessels, so they can be more easily impacted by things like cholesterol.

It is important to get regular checkups and diet and exercise. She also recommends staying cognitively active, but reading, doing puzzles, word games, learning something new or finding another way to challenge yourself.