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

Abstract

Macular degeneration results in the progressive loss of central vision and is the leading cause of blindness in the developed world. Daily activities become more challenging as we rely heavily on central vision for tasks such as navigation and physical engagement with our environment. Disease aside, research highlights the importance of continued engagement in physical and social activities to promote healthy ageing. Here, we explore how cognitive and physical changes in age-related macular degeneration compare with age-matched sighted controls.

Data were collected from participants with macular degeneration and age-matched controls in the United States and United Kingdom. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment validated for visually impaired populations, 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 activities questionnaire. Information about the nature and extent of visual impairment was also collected.

Preliminary findings reveal that overall average MoCA-Blind scores were significantly lower in the macular degeneration group compared with sighted controls. MoCA-Blind scores were positively correlated with physical and lifestyle activity levels as assessed by the Victoria Longitudinal Study activities questionnaire in both groups, regardless of visual status. However, MoCA-Blind scores did not correlate significantly with scores on the Timed Up-and-Go test after controlling for age. Additional data being collected will allow us to further explore the interaction between physical activity, ageing and severity of eye disease. Understanding the consequences of macular degeneration beyond the eye is important in this ageing population; it will help identify patient needs, effective interventions and advance research exploring comorbidities between age-related visual impairment and other age-related disorders leading to cognitive decline.