Assessing the relationship between central visual field loss, physical activity, and cognitive function

Abstract

Loss of central vision affects a variety of activities of daily living, limiting high acuity tasks like reading and increasing isolation due to loss of mobility and decreases in physical and social activity. These outcomes are known to affect healthy aging and can be associated with accelerated cognitive decline. Here, we explore how cognitive and physical changes in central vision loss compare with sighted controls. Participants with macular-affecting pathologies (MAP) and age-matched sighted controls were recruited in both the USA and UK. Cognitive function was assessed using an adapted version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment validated for the visually impaired, the MoCA-Blind. Physical and lifestyle activity levels were evaluated using several measures, including the Timed Up-and-Go functional balance instrument and/or the augmented Victoria Longitudinal Study (aVLS) activities questionnaire. Information about the nature and extent of visual impairment was also collected. Preliminary findings reveal a complex relationship between these variables; visual status (MAP vs sighted control) and physical and lifestyle activity levels – as assessed by the aVLS questionnaire – predicted MoCA-Blind scores, with the MAP group scoring significantly lower on aVLS activity measures. Interestingly, MoCA-Blind scores were not predicted by the Timed Up-and-Go test after controlling for age.