How controlling risk factors can protect your brain from dementia

The link between dementia and brain damage

Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that affect the brain, resulting in progressive loss of cognitive functions and daily skills. These conditions are caused by various brain diseases that damage brain cells, reducing a person's ability to think, remember and reason.

Age and dementia: inevitable link?

Age has been recognised as the biggest risk factor for developing dementia. As one gets older, the risk of dementia increases. However, age is not the only risk factor. There are several lifestyle factors that one can address to reduce the chances of developing this condition.

Seven modifiable risk factors for dementia

There are several risk factors for dementia that can be influenced by lifestyle choices and health management. These are:

• Low mental activity: Keeping the mind active through reading, puzzles and learning can help lower the risk.
• Smoking: Quitting smoking not only improves lung health, but also cerebral health.
• Little exercise: Regular physical activity promotes blood circulation to the brain, which is essential for maintaining cognitive functions.
• Depression: Actively treating depression can play a preventive role in developing dementia.
• Severely overweight: Maintaining a healthy weight helps improve overall health, including brain health.
• High blood pressure: Good control of blood pressure can reduce the risk of dementia.
• Diabetes: Effective management of diabetes is crucial to reduce the risk of dementia.

Practical tips to reduce your risk of dementia

These risk factors highlight the importance of a healthy lifestyle and regular medical supervision. By consciously managing your health and lifestyle habits, you can actively contribute to lowering your risk of dementia.

The dementia risk self-test forms the basis of your personalised prevention strategy to reduce your risk