Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Cataract Surgery

Although families and physicians are sometimes reluctant to opt for surgeries for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients, an article posted on VisionAware.org, describes a 2014 study that indicates cataract surgeries in these patients improves vision, and can also have a variety of non-visual benefits. The study indicated that those who had cataract surgery, because of better visual acuity, also had a reduced decline in memory and cognitive processes, and improvements in behavior. The burden on caregivers was also improved after these surgeries.

Ellen Hoyt, Executive Assistant

We recently had the pleasure of caring for an Alzheimer’s patient recovering from cataract surgery. Although the improvements in life quality can be exceptional, the initial recovery period can be challenging for the caregiver. Keeping hands away from eye patches and guards is sometimes difficult, as is assisting with those strenuous activities that might cause damage. Ellen Hoyt, our expert caregiver, has given us the following list of activities that can help calm patient anxieties:

Play favorite music

Head massage

Keep patient current with prescribed or approved over-the-counter pain medications

Occupy their minds with something they enjoy

Keep hands busy to prevent removal of required dressings, patches or guards

Thanks for reading our blog, and If you’d like to read more about this study, click the link below:

http://www.visionaware.org/blog/visionaware-blog/alzheimer-research-cataract-surgery-for-people-with-dementia-improves-vision-and-quality-of-life/12?mode=print