Scientists think that the two diseases may be related because both conditions involve similar changes in the eye and brain such as a build-up of beta amyloid proteins. The diseases also share some risk factors, such as high blood pressure and smoking.
More research will shed more light on the relationship between ARMD and Alzheimer's, but in the meantime, it's good to reduce our risk factors for both and to be aware of the possible relationship.
Source:
Age-related Eye Disease May Be Associated With Cognitive Impairment. Science Daily. May 15, 2009. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090511164238.htm
