For many of us, dementia, a memory-stealing disorder, seems like an inevitable part of aging.
Over time, countless theories have been proposed linking this incurable disease to every aspect of our lives, from bedtime to alcohol consumption.
However, recent research suggests that only three factors significantly influence the risk of developing dementia.
Understanding Dementia – The Basics
Dementia is a disease that affects the brain, making it difficult to think, remember, and communicate over time.
This is not a single disease, but an umbrella term for a group of symptoms caused by damage to the brain.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, but there are other causes such as vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia.
People with dementia may forget important things, have trouble following conversations, and have trouble performing daily tasks that were once easy.
It’s like the wiring in your brain is so tangled that it’s difficult for signals to pass through.
The trouble with dementia is that it not only affects memory, but can also change behavior, mood, and personality.
People with dementia may become more easily confused and irritable, and may withdraw from social activities they once enjoyed.
Brain health and dementia prevention
This research was led by scientists from around the world. Land Co., Ltd.a nonprofit research institute based in California.
The research team examined data from more than 20,000 older adults collected over an astonishing 30 years.
Of the many factors examined, experts found that lack of hobbies, obesity and being sedentary after age 60 were the most influential factors predicting the onset of dementia.
“This study provides further evidence about the actions individuals can take to pursue a lifestyle that promotes lifelong brain health,” explained Peter Hudmiet, the study’s lead economist.
“Other lifestyle and health behavioral factors, such as smoking, cholesterol tests, flu shots, mammograms, pap smears, and breast and prostate exams, are not strong predictors of dementia.”
Hobbies, weight, physical activity
Why is it important to find a hobby, stay active, and watch your weight?
Researchers have found that hobbies can help people feel like they have a purpose in life, can engage cognitive functions, and can essentially keep the brain active and healthy.
Similarly, regular physical activity is essential for healthy blood circulation and, in turn, the long-term health of your brain.
On the other hand, obesity often causes problems with blood circulation and can increase the risk of dementia.
Active efforts to prevent dementia
As dementia is one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time, the importance of understanding and reducing dementia risk cannot be overstated.
It is estimated that approximately 10 percent of adults over the age of 65 have dementia.
The number exceeds 7 million, and if current trends continue, that number is predicted to reach 12 million by 2040, placing an enormous burden on families, health systems, and social services around the world. There is.
Proactive measures are essential to combat this growing crisis and ensure a better quality of life for future generations.
This discovery has important implications on a broader societal scale, promoting a new focus on brain health.
Hollywood actor Chris Hemsworth has renewed his commitment to maintaining good sleep quality, managing stress, and promoting nutrition and fitness after discovering he was at high risk of developing dementia.
The surprising role of alcohol
While some factors, such as smoking and flu shots, showed little effect on dementia risk, alcohol consumption showed a surprising trend.
Drinking alcohol can definitely affect your chances of developing dementia in the future, and it all depends on how much you drink.
Some studies show that light to moderate drinking (such as one drink a day) may actually lower the risk of dementia in some people, especially the types associated with cardiovascular health. It suggests that.
On the other hand, heavy drinking is a big red flag for brain health.
Drinking too much can lead to serious problems such as alcohol-related brain damage (ARBD) and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which directly affect memory and thinking.
It can also damage blood vessels and make you more susceptible to stroke, increasing your risk of vascular dementia.
Even binge drinking, which involves consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time, can cause brain damage in the long term.
Coping with a diagnosis of dementia
The researchers didn’t stop at finding the key factor in dementia prevention. They also investigated the reactions and barriers of people diagnosed with dementia.
Experts have found that once diagnosed, many patients take steps to prepare for their future, such as arranging financial support and planning for a safer living environment.
However, the costs associated with memory care are cited as the biggest barrier to treatment.
Active efforts to prevent dementia
Understanding the risk factors for dementia and taking actions to reduce them is an important step toward healthier aging.
“The assessment provided individuals with information that may facilitate actions to prepare for the future,” said Susan Rohwedder, senior economist at Randland and author of the study.
Although this study does not guarantee prevention, it provides a clearer picture of what can help prevent dementia.
Maintaining an active lifestyle, taking care of your physical health, and keeping your mind focused by taking up hobbies may be the secret to a healthy brain at any age.
The survey results are RAND research report.
—–
Like what you read? Subscribe to our newsletter for fascinating articles, exclusive content and the latest updates.
Check out EarthSnap, a free app from Eric Ralls and Earth.com.
—–
