Dementia patients have trouble thinking, remembering, and making decisions. It also affects mood and behavior. There are many uncontrollable factors for dementia, including genetics and aging. However, there are a few controllable factors too.
The most common cause of dementia is aging. Approximately 1 in 10 people over 65 have dementia, and the prevalence doubles each decade. A new study has found that three simple lifestyle changes help reduce your risk of developing dementia.
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Eating A Healthy Diet
You can reduce your dementia risk with a healthy diet. Eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep your brain healthy and reduce your risk of dementia. A healthy diet can also help reduce inflammation throughout your body, which is linked to an increased risk of dementia.
Exercising Regularly
Regular exercise can help cut your risk of developing dementia. Exercise improves brain health by increasing blood flow to the brain, which provides nutrients to the brain correctly. Exercise also helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which have been linked to cognitive decline.
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Getting Enough Sleep
People with sleep deprivation are more likely to develop dementia than those who get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Other research has shown that people with sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea are at increased risk for dementia.
So if you’re worried about your risk of developing dementia, make sure you’re getting enough sleep. If you have sleep problems or want to improve your sleep habits, your doctor can help.