4 Simple Choices to Help Reduce Dementia Risk
Dementia is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, behavior, and mood. There is no cure for dementia, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk of developing it. These include making healthy lifestyle choices, such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep. Here are 4 changes you can make to your daily routines that may feel small, but they have a big impact on your brain function as you age:
Exercise Consistently
Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, including your brain health. Regular exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function, reduce the risk of dementia, and even slow the progression of the disease.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week. You can also do a combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity activity. In addition to aerobic activity, the CDC recommends that adults do muscle-strengthening activities that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms) on two or more days a week.
Get Hearing Aids (if You Need Them)
Hearing loss has been linked to an increased risk of dementia. Adults who let hearing issues go unaddressed often experience faster and more severe cognitive decline.
If you have any level of hearing loss, it is important to see a doctor and get fitted for hearing aids. Hearing aids can help you stay connected with your loved ones and make it easier to understand what is going on around you, giving you greater cognitive engagement and protection.
Prioritize Dental Hygiene
Good dental hygiene is important for overall health, including brain health. Research links gum disease to an increased risk of dementia. Keep brushing and flossing at least twice per day, and if you have gum disease, it is important to see a dentist and get treatment.
Keep Learning and Exercising Your Brain
Staying mentally active is just as important as being physically active. There are many things you can do to keep your brain active, such as reading, taking classes, or playing games. You can also exercise your brain by doing puzzles and brain teasers.
While these activities can be beneficial, another way to keep your brain sharp is through brain training. Strengthening cognitive skills benefits individuals of all ages. While brain training is not a treatment or cure for age-related memory loss, our programs do allow older adults to target specific memory skills. Every client gets a custom memory and cognitive 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.*
*These are results from past clients. You or your loved one may or may not experience the same outcomes.
