Cataract surgery can make a difference – in more ways than one
Recent studies are highlighting the advantages of undergoing cataract surgery in various populations for different reasons. Here is a brief look at the ways this sight-saving procedure can make a difference.
Decreasing the risk of falling
It’s a known statistic among health care providers that the risk of falling increases for just about all of us as we age. But if part of our aging process includes the development of cataracts and the poor vision it brings, our risk is dramatically increased.
In a recent study, the number of falls taken were tracked in a group of 400 people age 50 and over, with cataracts in both eyes. After surgery in just one eye, the risk of falling was decreased by 78%.
Some people wait for their cataracts to worsen before having them removed. But since waiting could increase the possibility of taking a fall, it’s probably wiser to have the surgery sooner than later.
Improving sleep and brain function
Study results reported last June linked feeling tired and sleepy during the day with postponing cataract surgery. In fact, the study found that people with cataracts often have poor sleep quality. This is likely due to the fact that cataracts can reduce the amount of light that reaches the retina at the back of the eye, and this lack of light can affect circadian rhythm, a process that regulates sleep.
Removing cataracts lets light come back into your eyes, and this may bring back normal circadian rhythm — and sleep quality. Plus, patients in the study who had the surgery were found to have a 33% lower chance of being diagnosed with any cognitive impairment. According to researchers, disturbed sleep patterns can contribute to cognitive impairment.
Improving lives for people with Alzheimer’s
According to a clinical study presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in 2014, both patients and their caregivers can benefit from cataract surgery. Study results report that dementia patients demonstrate increased mobility and functionality, and experience slower memory decline than patients who don’t have the procedure.
Learn more about cataract surgery by calling today: (352)-237-8400.