Sensory Risk Factors Contribute to Dementia Prevalence in Older Adults

Strategic Insights -

Research has estimated that the fraction of dementia prevalence associated with treatable sensory risk factors, such as hearing and vision loss, is substantial, according to a new report. The study, conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, analyzed data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study and found that approximately 66% of community-living adults aged 65 and older have at least one sensory risk factor, and 57% of dementia prevalence is attributed to these factors.

Key Takeaways:

  • The prevalence of at least one sensory risk factor was 66% among community-living adults aged 65 and older.
  • Dementia prevalence was 9% in the same population.
  • The population attributable fraction (PAF) of dementia from at least one sensory risk factor was 57% (95% CI: 8%-61%).
  • PAFs were larger for individuals who were aged 75-84 years, non-Hispanic white, and with lower income.
  • Addressing sensory impairments could play an important role in national dementia risk reduction strategies.
  • Funding for the research was provided by the National Institute on Aging and the National Institutes of Health.
  • Experts involved in the study include Xi Wang, Jason R. Smith, Wuyang Zhang, and others from the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Statistics:

  • 66% of community-living adults aged 65 and older have at least one sensory risk factor.
  • 9% of the same population has dementia.
  • The PAF of dementia from at least one sensory risk factor is 57% (95% CI: 8%-61%).
  • PAFs are larger for individuals aged 75-84 years (61%), non-Hispanic white individuals (59%), and those with lower income (60%).
  • The study involved 4623 participants from the National Health and Aging Trends Study.

Sources:

  • Summary population attributable fraction of dementia prevalence associated with sensory risk factors. Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, 2025:13872877251386439.
  • Ios Press, Nieuwe Hemweg 6B, 1013 Bg Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Mental Health Weekly Digest, October 27, 2025; p 899.