Could dementia really be prevented? While there is no surefire answer, some dementia care specialists believe that simple lifestyle changes and preventative measures could decrease the chances of developing dementia in later life. Dementia care specialists are individuals who are highly specialized and trained to help those with dementia, a disorder that makes it difficult for sufferers to remember, communicate, think clearly and make decisions. These specialists provide support in multiple ways, such as providing companionship, helping organize activities and assisting with difficult daily tasks. In most cases, they assist families and loved ones in understanding the complexities of dementia, helping them to understand better the level of care required and how best to provide it. By offering physical and emotional aid and support, dementia care specialists play an integral role in the health and well-being of those suffering from this disorder.
When it comes to preventing dementia, dementia care specialists at Livewell Estates agree that the evidence about regular physical activity, mental stimulation, a healthy diet and managing high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol levels can help to reduce the risk of dementia dramatically. Although not all cases of dementia can be prevented, it is important to take action as soon as possible to make sure good health practices are put in place. Taking these preventative steps may just be one way to ensure a healthier future for generations to come.
Research from Dementia Care Specialists and Academics
1. Get regular exercise
Exercise is not only good for your overall health, but it may also help to reduce your risk of developing dementia. A study published in the journal Neurology found that people who engaged in regular physical activity were less likely to develop dementia than those who were inactive.
2. Eat a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet is important for overall health, and it may also help to reduce your risk of dementia. A study published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that people who ate a Mediterranean-style diet were less likely to develop dementia than those who did not.
3. Don’t smoke
Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for dementia, so quitting is essential for reducing your risk. A study published in the journal Lancet found that smoking increased the risk of developing dementia by up to 50%.
4. Limit your alcohol intake
Drinking too much alcohol can increase your risk of developing dementia, so it is important to drink in moderation. A study published in the journal BMJ found that people who drank more than 14 units of alcohol per week were at an increased risk of developing dementia.
5. Get enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is important for overall health, and it may also help to reduce your risk of dementia. A study published in the journal Neurology found that people who slept less than six hours per night were at an increased risk of developing dementia.
6. Challenge your mind regularly
Keeping your mind active and challenged may help to reduce your risk of dementia. A study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that people who engaged in activities such as reading, writing, and doing crossword puzzles were less likely to develop dementia than those who did not.
7. Socialize regularly
Maintaining social connections is important for overall health, and it may also help to reduce your risk of dementia. A study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine found that people who had strong social ties were less likely to develop dementia than those who did not.
8. Manage chronic conditions
If you have any chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, it is important to manage them properly as they can increase your risk of developing dementia. A study published in the journal Neurology found that people with uncontrolled hypertension were more likely to develop dementia than those with controlled hypertension.
Although not all cases of dementia can be prevented, it is important to take action as soon as possible to make sure good health practices are put in place. Taking these preventative steps may just be one way to ensure a healthier future for generations to come.