Dementia is a neurodegenerative disease that has several different forms, symptoms, and causes. Dementia may be caused by a variety of illnesses or injuries. While age remains the most significant risk factor for dementia, research demonstrates that proactive measures can be taken to mitigate personal risk. Engaging in regular physical activity, adopting a healthy diet, and exercising your mind are the key strategies to reduce your risk. What is Dementia?
Dementia is a condition where people experience memory loss, have trouble thinking and reasoning, and find it hard to do things on their own at work or in daily life. Certain forms of dementia are progressive, which means they worsen gradually as time goes on. However, some types of dementia are treatable and can even be reversed.
Dementia is more common among older people, which is why it's often seen as a late-life condition. The most common causes of dementia include Degenerative neurological diseases. These are Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and some types of multiple sclerosis. While there is no cure for dementia yet, making good choices in midlife can promote a healthy brain as you grow older. Studies reveal that people who follow a 'brain healthy' lifestyle have a lower risk of developing dementia as they age.
Dementia Prevention
The decisions you make and lifestyle changes in your 40s can impact your risk of dementia. You can improve your lifelong brain health and maintain cognitive abilities by recognizing and managing your personal risk factors and adopting simple but powerful lifestyle changes.
You can take charge of seven pillars to achieve a brain-healthy lifestyle.
- Manage blood pressure
- Control cholesterol
- Keep blood sugar normal
- Get physically active
- Eat a healthy diet
- Lose extra weight
- Don't start smoking or quit
Experts now think that
Alzheimer's risk isn't only related to old age; it can begin in the brain long before symptoms show, sometimes during middle age. This means it's essential to start caring for your brain health early—it's never too soon to begin. The stronger you make each of the seven pillars a part of your daily life, the longer and more efficiently your brain will function. By doing so, you can also lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's and other dementias, or delay the onset of severe symptoms.
Monitor your blood pressure regularly
Studies have indicated that effectively managing blood pressure in midlife not only decreases the likelihood of cognitive issues and dementia but also reduces the risks of heart attack and stroke.
Limit alcohol use and avoid smoking
Drinking too much alcohol can harm the brain and raise the risk of dementia. Smoking tobacco also increases the chances of developing dementia. Quitting smoking, even in the later stages of life, can help lower the risk.
Adopt a nutritious diet and stay physically active throughout your life.
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, which are linked to dementia in later life.
Social engagement
Research indicates that staying socially engaged throughout life may promote
brain health and potentially lower the risk of dementia. Plan regular social outings to connect with friends and family, or engage in meaningful activities like volunteering or joining community groups to stay socially active.
Quality sleep and Stress management
Sleep provides various benefits to the mind. It allows the brain to solidify memories and improves the ability to learn new skills. Recent studies suggest that sleep problems, such as
sleep apnea, might be connected to a higher risk of dementia. Getting sufficient, good-quality sleep could help lower your risk. Managing stress takes consistent effort. Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga can help you unwind and counteract the negative effects of stress.
These are lifestyle changes we can all start making now to enhance our quality of life as we age.
Which one will you begin with?
.jpg)
Comments
Post a Comment