Sensory Loss and Dementia Risk
Author Information
Author(s): Phillips Natalie, Best Tristin, Grant Nicole, Kabir Ameera, Pichora-Fuller M Kathleen, Campos Jennifer, Mick Paul, Wittich Walter
Primary Institution: Concordia University
Hypothesis
Are sensory factors associated with alterations in brain function and structure in older adults with or at risk for dementia?
Conclusion
Sensory loss is common in older adults and is linked to changes in brain function and structure, particularly in those at risk for dementia.
Supporting Evidence
- Sensory loss in hearing, vision, and olfaction is prevalent in older adults.
- Normal sensory performance was observed in a minority of participants.
- Deficits in multiple sensory domains were highly prevalent among participants with Alzheimer's disease.
Takeaway
As people get older, losing the ability to hear, see, or smell can happen a lot, and it might mean they could get dementia.
Methodology
Participants were assessed for sensory loss using pure-tone screening for hearing, contrast sensitivity for vision, and the Brief Smell Identification Test for olfaction.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 128 with normal cognition, 135 with subjective cognitive decline, 241 with mild cognitive impairment, and 93 with Alzheimer's disease.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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