Risk factors and reversing dementia | ActiKare
Although 5.3 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, there are other types of dementia such as vascular dementia, mixed dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies and frontotemporal dementia. To me, this means that we either are directly affected by this disease or know someone who is. The important thing to remember is that some forms of dementia are preventable.
“According too the CDC, “Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disease that gets worse over time and currently has no cure. It is the most common type of dementia and accounts for 50 to 70 percent of dementia cases.” Centers for Disease Control
Risk factors that you can change and reduce your risk of dementia include:
? Alcohol use – Large amounts of alcohol can increase the risk of dementia.
? Cholesterol - Low density lipoprotein (LDL) or the bad cholesterol can increase risk of vascular dementia.
? Depression - There is a link between late-life depression and Alzheimer’s related dementia, especially in men.
? Diabetes – Type two diabetes increases the risk of vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
? Blood pressure – Having a BP that is either too low or too high has also been linked to Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.
? Smoking – Smoking elevates the risk factors for vascular disease and increases the risk of developing dementia.
*Risk factors that you can not change are age and genetics
Some forms of dementia can be reversed. Dementia may be brought on by poisoning, nutritional deficiencies, anoxia, heart and lung problems, brain tumors, reactions to medication, sub-dural hematomas, metabolic and endocrine abnormalities or infections and immune disorders.
Prevention:
Vaccinations – Stay current on vaccinations such as tetanus, diphtheria, polio and influenza. Some vaccinations have a protective effect against developing dementia.
Healthy diet – Eat a diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and omega-3 fatty acids (certain fish and nuts).
Lower blood pressure - Normal levels of blood pressure can reduce your risk of vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Physical Activity - Remaining physically and socially active can delay the onset of dementia. Walking, swimming, dancing and travel can reduce the symptoms of dementia.
Keep your mind active - Include puzzles, word games, reading, writing, drawing or painting in your daily activities.
While you may not be able to prevent the onset of dementia, it seems there are some steps you can take to reduce or delay the onset of dementia. Next week I will write about safety issues, legal concerns, family dynamics and caregiver’s challenges.
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