Right at Home Discusses Ways to Reduce the Risk of Dementia

Reducing the Risk of Getting Dementia Through Good of Health

Did you know that about 50 million people currently have dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common type?  Although age is the top risk factor, dementia is not a natural or inevitable consequence of aging.

Many health conditions and behaviors affect the odds of developing it, and Alzheimer’s Association research suggests that a third of cases are preventable. So what can one do to assist in preventing Dementia? That includes getting enough exercise; treating other health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol; having an active social life, and avoiding or curbing harmful habits such as smoking, overeating and drinking too much alcohol.

Eating well may help prevent dementia. It's important to get your nutrients through food and not through supplements. Vitamin supplements may not have the advertised effect. There’s strong research showing that Vitamin B or E pills, fish oil or multi-complex supplements that are promoted for brain health do not work in that capacity. However, don’t rule out these supplements increasing your overall physical health.

Do games and other activities aimed at boosting thinking skills, work?  There is not much evidence they benefit thinking skills, but activities can be considered for people with normal capacities or mild impairment.