Alzheimer’s Disease and the Eyes

Learn how Alzheimer’s disease can affect vision, eye movement, and perception — and how optometrists can help manage these changes.

What It Is 

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition that destroys brain cells, affecting memory, behaviour, and thinking skills. 
While most people recognize its impact on cognition, Alzheimer’s can also affect how the eyes process and interpret visual information. 
There is currently no cure, but early detection and supportive care — including regular eye exams — can improve quality of life. 

Who It Affects / Risk Factors 

• Most common in adults over age 65 

• Risk increases with age, family history, and certain genetic factors 

• Can coexist with other eye conditions such as cataracts or macular degeneration 

• Often underrecognized because patients may struggle to describe vision problems 

Symptoms to Watch For 

People with Alzheimer’s may show signs of visual change that aren’t related to the eyes themselves but to the brain’s visual processing: 

• Reduced contrast sensitivity (difficulty telling objects from their background) 🌗 

• Narrowed or reduced peripheral vision 👁️ 

• Trouble tracking or following moving objects 👓 

• Difficulty focusing on one spot or maintaining gaze 🎯 

• Visual hallucinations — seeing objects that aren’t there 🌈 

• Challenges with reading, recognizing faces, or navigating familiar spaces 

How It’s Diagnosed 

Optometrists use specialized assessments to evaluate both eye health and visual processing. 
Because individuals with Alzheimer’s may have difficulty communicating their symptoms, optometrists may: 

• Modify testing techniques to minimize confusion 

• Use observation and nonverbal cues 

• Coordinate findings with family members or caregivers 

These approaches help identify whether visual changes are due to eye disease or neurological causes related to Alzheimer’s. 

Treatment & Management 

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, optometrists can help patients and caregivers improve safety, comfort, and independence through practical vision strategies: 

• Schedule regular eye exams to keep prescriptions up to date and detect other eye diseases early. 

• Optimize lighting — ensure rooms are well lit, reduce shadows, and avoid glare. 

• Simplify environments by removing busy patterns and using high-contrast objects (e.g., white dishes on a dark table). 

• Highlight key objects like handrails or door frames for better navigation. 

• Move slowly when approaching or speaking to a person with Alzheimer’s — this helps them visually process your movement. 

When to See Your Optometrist 

The Ontario Association of Optometrists recommends annual comprehensive eye exams for all Ontarians aged 65 and older. 
Seniors are at increased risk for both Alzheimer’s-related vision changes and age-related eye diseases such as glaucoma or macular degeneration. 

Eye exams and required follow-ups are covered by OHIP, ensuring every senior can access regular care. 

Related Topics 

• [Dementia and Vision] 

• [Cataracts and Aging Eyes] 

• [Low Vision and Visual Aids] 

• [OHIP Coverage for Seniors] 

Resources & Programs 

• OHIP Coverage for Eye Exams 

• Eye See…Eye Learn®

• Find an Eye Doctor Near You

💙 Book an Eye Exam — Optometrists can identify changes in vision and perception caused by Alzheimer’s and help support daily living and safety.