Cataracts are the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to reduced vision. Thankfully, we can now reverse the effects of cataracts with cataract surgery, which replaces the cloudy natural lens with a clear lens implant.
Beyond the obvious benefits of this procedure, cataract surgery can improve your life and overall health in several unexpected ways.
Reduced Dementia Risk
Recent research suggests that the benefits of cataract surgery may go far beyond the eyes and help reduce the risk of a currently incurable condition: dementia.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2022 found that cataract removal has a significant link to reduced dementia risk. More specifically, cataract surgery patients were found to have a 29% lower rate of dementia.
While this study is new and further research is required to confirm its findings, it presents an exciting new benefit of cataract surgery. After all, cataracts are theorized to speed up the process of cognitive decline by reducing neuronal input.
Return To a Well-Rounded Lifestyle
Vision is crucial to a broad range of daily tasks and hobbies, including reading, writing, drawing, driving, watching TV or movies, photography, and more. Adults with cataracts may lose the ability to partake in these activities, leading to a diminished quality of life.
Undergoing cataract surgery can restore your ability to participate in all vision-related activities for a fulfilling, well-rounded lifestyle.
Reduced Risk of Falls
Falls are the number one cause of injury-related death among individuals aged 65 and older. So, among this demographic, fall prevention is a key concern. Considering that impaired vision can dramatically increase adults’ risk of falling, cataract surgery can play a key role in fall prevention.
By recovering and improving patients’ vision, cataract surgery can reduce the likelihood of falling and sustaining fall-related injuries. A 2021 analysis of six studies published in the Journal of Ophthalmology found that cataract surgery reduces fall frequency in older patients by 32%.
Dr. Mahootchi at The Eye Clinic of Florida has over 25 years of experience performing cataract surgery, with thousands of happy patients. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!