AMD linked with cognitive impairment

Patients with advanced age-related macular degeneration may be more likely to have cognitive impairment, according to a study in the April issue of Archives of Ophthalmology.
 
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) research group examined the relationship between vision problems and cognitive impairment in 2,946 patients enrolled in AREDS, an 11-centre study of AMD and age-related cataract.

Between July 2000 and March 2004, the patients took a series of six tests to gauge their cognitive function. Participants' visual acuity was measured every year and the progression of AMD was assessed and categorized at regular intervals throughout the study using retinal photography. Category 1 indicated no AMD and Category 4 is the most advanced stage.