6 Tips to Reduce Risk of Dementia
We all want to feel sharp, energized, and healthy as we get older. However, with conditions like dementia on the rise, it can be hard to know what the future holds. While there is no one “miracle” way to reduce risk of dementia, here are some tips that research shows to be effective:
#1: Skip Processed Foods
Small, manageable shifts in what you put on your plate may keep dementia at bay, according to research. A recent study found that just replacing a small portion of daily processed food with a whole-food alternative may reduce risk of dementia by 34-39%.
The ultra processing of many of our foods degrade their nutrient value and add in compounds or toxins that can disrupt the function of your brain, especially as you get older. Instead, to protect your brain health, focus on getting enough:
- Whole grains
- Fresh or frozen veggies and fruits
- Meat, seafood, and eggs
- Herbs, spices, and garlic
- Beans and legumes
#2: Stay Physically Active
People who engage in regular physical activity have a 35% lower risk of developing dementia, according to one study. When it comes to type of exercise, research shows that it’s not as critical as the fact that you’re just doing something.
Walking, biking, running, tennis, yoga, pickleball, or other individual or group activities all have lasting benefits both for your physical and cognitive health.
#3: Keep Up With Household Chores
This may seem like a weird one—but according to research, people who engage in regular household chores have a 21% lower chance of developing dementia! Keep doing those housework-related activities like DIY projects, daily cleaning, yardwork, and other similar things to keep your body and brain sharper and more active.
#4: Have Healthy Social Connections
It’s no secret that social connection is one of the biggest preventers of cognitive decline. Having regular time with friends and family (especially across generations) may keep your brain health from deteriorating as you age! According to neurologist Dr. Kellyann Niotis, “People who engage in regular social activities also have more memory-protective proteins and are more likely to feel a sense of meaning in life – all of which are important to brain health.”
Set aside weekly time to engage with family members or in other meaningful relationships. It may reduce risk of dementia by up to 15%!
#5: Exercise WITH Other People
This one is killing two birds with one stone: physical activity AND social connection. Inviting others into your health routines can reduce risk of dementia by amplifying the benefits of each activity!
Invite a friend to take a walk with you. Join a local class with a couple other people you enjoy being around. Play with your kids or grandkids at the park. These kinds of activities have great benefits for your health and cognition!
#6: Keep Your Brain Active
Reading, puzzles, playing games, and brain training are all important ways to keep your brain sharp and active as you get older. While all brain activity is good, a targeted approach to memory help is one of the best things you can do for your long-term cognitive well-being.
At LearningRx, our program is uniquely designed to serve clients of all ages. Our activities strengthen weak cognitive skills including short- and long-term memory, attention, processing speed, and reasoning so you can feel sharper for longer!
Brain Training to Improve Memory
Brain training is not a treatment or cure for age-related memory loss. However, our programs do allow older adults to target specific memory skills. Every client gets a custom memory training plan, with training tailored to their individual needs.
LearningRx has provided memory help training to thousands of clients, including those with age-related memory loss. In one research study, adults over 50 with memory problems improved short-term and long-term memory after completing a brain training program. In the same study, over 90% of clients reported real-life improvements as a result of training.
(Results based on studies and surveys of past clients. Other clients may or may not achieve the same results.)
Contact us today if you’d like more information on protecting your memory and staying sharper for longer!
