When we think of giving our health a boost we often turn to gym memberships, yoga classes or other sweat-inducing activities—rarely do we consider the importance of regular visits to an eye doctor to ensure that our ‘eye health’ is also getting the attention it deserves. After all, many of us aren’t even sure what ‘eye health’ means.
Not everyone may know that extra servings of spinach and kale for example, aren’t just useful in increasing iron intake, but also help in maintaining healthy eyes. We may also not realize that, as we stare hypnotically at a computer screen, that our eyes are getting dryer by the minute. Additionally, most of us may also not be aware about the possibilities of a causal link between ‘eye health’ and ‘brain health’—but it’s this very topic on which scientists have recently made some very interesting findings.
As detailed in an article by Optometry Today, a five year study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, found that certain eye conditions (namely age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy) are linked to an increased risk of developing dementia. The study also highlights the importance of ophthalmologists and doctors being aware of this increased risk, so that they can check for symptoms of dementia in patients with these eye conditions.
Though further studies of this link have yet to be done, these findings underscore just how vital the health of our eyes really is. Yes our eyes help make the world visible to us, but beyond this role, they also assist in the functioning of other parts of our body, including our brain. So remember to take care of your ‘eye health’—schedule that appointment with your eye doctor, eat those leafy greens, and don’t forget to wear your sunglasses.
