Some lifestyle changes that can help prevent dementia include:
Staying Physically Active: Engaging in physical activities such as hiking, swimming, running, cycling, martial arts, weight training, or yoga can lower the risk of developing dementia.
Managing High Blood Pressure: If you have high blood pressure, managing it through medication and lifestyle behaviors is crucial.
Not Smoking: Avoiding smoking can reduce the risk of dementia.
Moderate Alcohol Consumption: Light-to-moderate alcohol consumption, as part of a healthy lifestyle, may be associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
High-Quality Diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in saturated fats and sugar, can be beneficial. Foods with flavonoids, such as apples, berries, and oranges, may help keep the mind sharp.
Cognitive Activities: Engaging in mentally challenging activities like puzzles or playing card games can help prevent or delay dementia.
Social Engagement: Maintaining active social contact is part of a healthy lifestyle that may contribute to memory preservation.
Healthy Weight Maintenance: Keeping a healthy weight is important for reducing the risk of dementia.
Blood Sugar Management: Managing blood sugar levels, especially if you have diabetes, is another key factor.
Avoiding Excessive Drinking: Limiting alcohol intake to avoid excessive consumption is recommended.
Cognitive Training: Some evidence suggests that cognitive training may be a promising intervention to prevent dementia, although more research is needed.
It’s important to note that while these lifestyle changes are associated with a reduced risk of dementia, they are not guaranteed to prevent it. However, they contribute to overall health and may help reduce the risk of other diseases as well.
You may also be interested in:
Our half-day Dementia course delivered in your workplace or online.