National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) DOT Practice Exam

What is the most common age-related cause of vision impairment in older adults?

1. Cataracts

2. Macular degeneration

3. Glaucoma

4. Diabetic retinopathy

The correct answer is: Macular degeneration

The most prevalent age-related cause of vision impairment in older adults is, in fact, cataracts. This condition occurs when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision and, if untreated, can significantly affect daily activities and quality of life. Cataracts are incredibly common among the elderly population, with many experiencing them by the age of 80. Although macular degeneration, another serious eye condition, does lead to vision impairment primarily through the deterioration of the macula, it does not affect as many individuals as cataracts do. Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that can result in vision loss but is less common than cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy primarily affects those with diabetes, making it a less universal concern for all older adults.