1 out of 9 people aged 65 and above experience dementia. It ranks as the 6th leading cause of death and brings significant suffering to both those affected and their caregivers.
However, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your chances of developing dementia.
Research has found a connection between heart disease risk factors and dementia. To lower your risk, manage conditions like diabetes, maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking, and control blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Regular exercise and a healthy weight can also contribute to a reduced risk of dementia.
Your diet plays a role too. Following the DASH diet or Mediterranean diet may help decrease the risk of dementia.
Taking measures to prevent head injuries, especially for individuals like football players and boxers prone to repeated concussions, can lower the risk of developing dementia.
Getting adequate sleep is essential. Lack of sleep due to conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea can increase the chances of dementia. Aim for around 8 hours of sleep per day.
Staying socially engaged and keeping your mind active by playing games, solving puzzles, reading, and learning new skills can be beneficial.
If you're dealing with depression, seeking treatment is important for your overall well-being.
Is it true that engaging in diverse hobbies decrease the chances to dementia (keeping the brain occupied)