(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- A new study gives seniors a reason to visit the ophthalmologist -- those with poor vision who sought help were 64 percent less likely to develop dementia.

University of Michigan researchers suggest poor vision may now be a predictor of dementia and not just a symptom that comes after diagnosis.  They looked at Medicare data relating to poor vision, visits to the ophthalmologist and a national study.

“Our results indicate that it is important for elderly individuals with visual problems to seek medical attention so that the causes of the problems can be identified and treated," Mary A.M. Rogers, Ph.D., research assistant professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School and research director of the Patient Safety Enhancement Program at the University of Michigan Health System and the Ann Arbor VA Medical Center, was quoted as saying.

“While heart disease and cancer death rates are continuing to decline, mortality rates for Alzheimer's disease are on the rise," Dr. Rogers said. “So if we can delay the onset of dementia, we can save individuals and their families from stress, cost and burden that are associated with Alzheimer's disease."

According to researchers, Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia.

SOURCE: American Journal of Epidemiology, February 2010

Tell your story and you could win $1500!

One in six Americans is affected by a brain disorder such as Alzheimer's disease, migraine, autism, MS, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, ALS, stroke, and more. Make a film telling us your story, or the story of a loved one, affected by a brain disorder. Help us make the case for why more brain research is needed to find cures.

Win Up to $1,500 in Prizes

Eligible entries could win up to $1,500 in prizes. You don't have to be an expert filmmaker to share your story. Learn more about contest rules and guidelines and judging criteria.

DEADLINE: February 16, 2010

How to Enter the Neuro Film Festival

STEP 1: Make Your Video

Make a three to seven minute short video telling your story about someone living with a brain disorder. Be sure to use the phrase "Let's put our brains together and support brain research" in your video. A list of brain disorders can be found on TheBrainMatters.org.

STEP 2: Upload to YouTube

1. All entrants must upload their film on YouTube. Create an account with YouTube and upload your video as a response to the 2010 Neuro Film Festival video. When you are uploading a film on YouTube, tag your film with the following keywords so that people can find your film on YouTube:
   "Neuro Film Festival, American Academy of Neurology Foundation, AAN, brain."

2. Also in the Description box, include the following text:
   "This film has been entered into the 2010 Neuro Film Festival from the American Academy of Neurology Foundation at www.neurofilmfestival.com. Let's put our brains together and support brain research!"

3. YouTube comments must be turned off upon uploading to the site.

4. After you upload your film on YouTube, complete the online form on the 2010 Neuro Film Festival and Contest website, which includes your contact details, the YouTube link to your film, and whether you are entering your film for consideration in the Contest.

STEP 3: Complete the Entry Form

Complete the Neuro Film Festival Submission Form in order to be eligible for prizes. Make sure to have your YouTube link ready.

Event sponsored by: