Did you know that September is World Alzheimer’s Month? A degenerative brain disease that is responsible for 60-80% of dementia cases, Alzheimer’s gradually impairs memory, thinking, and behavior, ultimately leading to significant cognitive decline.

Thankfully, there are indications that it’s possible to reduce your risk of cognitive decline. In today’s post, I invite you to learn how new research from The Lancet offers hope that dementia prevention is within reach.¹

How dementia can be prevented

New research from The Lancet indicates that while more people are living with dementia due to increased life expectancy, the age-specific incidence is decreasing in high-income countries. This suggests that with the proper resources, individuals can take proactive measures to reduce their risk of developing dementia.

The research published by The Lancet identifies several areas where modifiable risk factors contribute to dementia, offering a roadmap for prevention:

1. Cardiovascular Health: Managing high blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as reducing smoking can prevent vascular damage, a key contributor to dementia.

2. Education and Cognitive Engagement: By practicing lifelong learning and challenging yourself mentally, you can build cognitive reserves, helping your brain resist damage.

3. Hearing and Vision: Scientists agree that addressing hearing and vision issues is critical for dementia prevention, though there is disagreement on the causal mechanisms in that connection. One hypothesis is that hearing and vision issues can make it more difficult for individuals to process their environment and social interactions, using up mental resources that could be used for cognitive reasoning and memory.

4. Lifestyle Choices: Because overall wellbeing also plays a role in dementia prevention, it’s critical to make wise lifestyle choices. Fostering strong relationships and community, managing your weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and regular exercise are all essential.

Dementia prevention requires a comprehensive approach encompassing mental, physical, and social well-being; by addressing these risk factors, you can reduce your likelihood of developing dementia by almost 50%!

At Solidarity, we share dementia treatment for members, but prevention is far more effective and life-giving. At your next doctor’s visit, discuss these preventative measures and how best to implement them. Prioritizing brain health today can make your mind sharper in the future, allowing you to lead a fuller, longer life.

By staying informed and proactive, we can all contribute to a future where Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are less prevalent.

1. Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission Livingston, Gill et al. The Lancet, Volume 404, Issue 10452, 572 – 628 ↩︎