The Caring Corner®
Is It Possible to Prevent Dementia?
With scientists still trying to understand what causes dementia, there is no cure at the moment. But, there is lots of evidence suggesting that lifestyle factors have a big impact in reducing our risk for dementia.
Some of the risk factors for dementia are hard to change. These include: our genetic make up and age. While genetic factors have an important role in some unusual forms of dementia, in general, dementia results from a combination of genetic tendencies exacerbated by environmental factors like poor diet and lack of exercise. As we age our likelihood of developing dementia will increase; the good news is that dementia is not guaranteed just because we get old.
Other more changeable factors include depression, social isolation, loneliness and a sedentary lifestyle. Finally, scientists have confirmed that what’s beneficial for our heart also helps our brain. We can lower our risk of dementia by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding excessive alcohol, not smoking, exercising regularly and enjoying a well-balanced diet.
The good news for those of us in Chapel Hill and surrounding areas, is that we have many resources that make it easier to enjoy a healthy lifestyle with year-round recreational activities. And when we need medical care, we have some of the best facilities in the world just a few miles away.
