Dementia is a complex and debilitating neurodegenerative disease. It is a condition that affects a person’s thinking, behavior and memory. Unfortunately, the disease tends to worsen over time and can destroy memory. Last September, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a report on the public health response to dementia, noting that more than 55 million people worldwide suffer from dementia. A new case is developed every 3 seconds. In fact, the WHO says it is the seventh leading cause of death and a leading cause of addiction among the elderly. Despite this, many people do not know how to manage dementia. Here are 7 such important tips that can help you reduce your risk of dementia.
How to deal with dementia?
However, aging is the biggest risk factor for dementia. The facts show that there are certain things that can help reduce the risk of dementia for anyone. These include some lifestyle changes.
So to help you understand what lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk of dementia or Alzheimer’s, Health Shots spoke with Dr. Pradeep Mahajan Regenerative Medicine Researcher, StemRx Bioscience Solutions Pvt Ltd, Navi Mumbai.
Here are 7 lifestyle changes that can help you manage dementia
1 weight control
Being overweight or obese can increase one’s risk of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, both of which are related to dementia. It is important to have a balanced diet that includes fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grains. Try to avoid junk, processed and packaged foods.
2 training sessions daily
You may be shocked to learn that a lack of physical activity can increase your chances of getting heart disease, being overweight or obese, and developing type 2 diabetes. All of these are associated with dementia. Older adults who are unable to exercise regularly may experience memory problems later in life.
So be physically active regularly. Try activities such as brisk walking, cycling or dancing. Do strength exercises or yoga.
3 Do not drink alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol can lead to stroke, heart disease and cancer, which affect the nervous system and brain. The person may suffer from dementia later in life. Limit alcohol consumption and stay healthy.
4 don’t smoke
Did you know that smoking constricts blood vessels, increases blood pressure and puts you at a higher risk of heart disease? Smoking is a risk factor for dementia because it leads to cognitive impairment.
5 be stress-free
Depression increases the risk of dementia. Try doing relaxation techniques like meditation.
6 Take control of your health
As you age, your risk of health problems such as untreated high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes increases. These conditions are associated with an increased risk of developing dementia. So it is really important that you keep an eye on yourself and follow a healthy routine so that you stay in good health.
7 Eat a healthy diet
With increasing age, it becomes even more important to have a healthy diet. A healthy and balanced diet will provide all the nutrients your body needs and can help reduce the risk of other diseases, including dementia.
Therefore, eat whole grains such as rice and pasta, fruit and green vegetables, red meat, fish and use vegetable oils. You must limit the intake of sugary foods, alcohol and salt.
