New Risk Factors for Alzheimer's: Vision Loss and High LDL Cholesterol
Alzheimer's disease is a common fear for many as they age, especially when they witness friends or family members experiencing the devastating effects of dementia. The disease doesn't just impact memory—it profoundly affects a person's ability to perform daily tasks and communicate, significantly burdening families and finances.
Experiencing signs of dementia can trigger anxiety and fear, not just for the aging individual but for their entire support network of family and friends. The uncertainty and gradual cognitive decline associated with dementia ripple through loved ones, creating emotional distress and concern about what the future holds.
Long-term care costs can quickly escalate, often requiring supervision and help with daily living activities, leading to around-the-clock assistance not covered by health insurance or Medicare policies.
The financial toll on families is immense. According to the Alzheimer's Association, the total cost of caring for individuals with Alzheimer's and other dementias is expected to exceed $1 trillion by 2050. Out-of-pocket expenses, loss of income from family caregivers, and the emotional strain make Alzheimer's a challenge that extends well beyond the patient.
Ongoing research offers some reassurance as scientists continue to uncover more about Alzheimer's and other dementias. Although a cure may not be imminent, these advancements help us understand how to better prepare for aging and may provide strategies to delay or reduce the risk of developing dementia.
This knowledge and lifestyle changes empowers you and your family to take proactive steps to maintain cognitive health as you age, potentially enhancing your quality of life even without a definitive cure. Additionally, understanding new research can reveal strategies to help slow down the progression of the disease, offering more hope and support for those affected.
Researchers at Cleveland Clinic have identified two new risk factors for Alzheimer's disease: vision loss and high LDL cholesterol.
"The first is vision loss, and this adds on to what we already knew, that hearing loss is a risk factor," said Dr. Jessica Caldwell, a neuropsychologist at Cleveland Clinic.
In a similar way, vision loss is a risk factor. The other brand-new risk factor is high LDL cholesterol. And this is a brand-new risk that adds on to medical risks like diabetes and high blood pressure.
The exact reasons why these factors contribute to Alzheimer's are still being studied. Dr. Caldwell suggests that vision loss could reduce the amount of sensory information the brain processes, which may weaken cognitive function over time.
Vision impairment might also limit activities like exercise, socializing, and cognitive engagement, which are all linked to better brain health. High LDL cholesterol can also damage the brain's small blood vessels, which are vital for maintaining cognitive function.
Our brain has a lot of small blood vessels, so they can be more easily impacted by things like cholesterol.
Implications for Prevention
Identifying these new risk factors underscores the importance of managing overall health, especially as we age. If vision loss or high cholesterol is a concern, Dr. Caldwell recommends regular checkups and early intervention.
If you're concerned about your vision, go to your eye doctor, have an updated vision test, and follow any guidelines that doctor might have for you.
She says that for high LDL, follow your doctor's recommendations for diet, exercise, or medications to lower cholesterol levels.
Addressing these risks, along with maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and cognitive activities like puzzles and learning new skills, can help reduce the likelihood of Alzheimer's development.
The Ripple Effects of Alzheimer's on Families
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's extends beyond finances—it can take an emotional and physical toll on family caregivers. As the disease progresses, families may experience stress, burnout, and strained relationships due to the intensity of care required.
Because Alzheimer's can last for years or even decades, caregivers often sacrifice their own health and financial stability. Family dynamics are further complicated by the need to make difficult decisions, including choosing care settings and handling legal and financial planning.
A survey of long-term care costs in the United States illustrates the financial impact of long-term care services, especially memory care. For someone with Long-Term Care Insurance to pay for some or all of these costs, the impact on the family is reduced, easing some of the burden and giving time for loved ones to be family.
LTC News has resources where you can compare the available LTC Insurance options to help you and your family prepare for the impact aging and declining health can have on you on those you love.
The base costs for memory care in a facility are higher than in assisted living. Additional surcharges are added depending on the care recipient's needs. The costs vary depending on where you live and grow over time.
According to the LTC News survey of long-term care costs, the national median bae cost for memory care is now $5677 a month before surcharges. However, if you live in Boston, that base cost is $7,953, compared to $5025 a month in El Paso, Texas.
If a loved one doesn't have Long-Term Care Insurance or qualifies for Medicaid due to limited financial resources, the full cost of care will need to be paid out-of-pocket. This often means that either the individual or a family member takes on caregiving responsibilities, or a combination of both, placing a significant financial and emotional burden on the family.
Understand the risk factors for yourself and your loved ones, and if possible, begin preparing now for the physical, emotional, and financial burdens that aging and future long-term care may place on your family. Proactive planning can help protect your assets and ensure that care needs are met without overwhelming your loved ones emotionally or financially.