Ways To Prevent Dementia

With some 30% of possible dementia incidents being preventable, based on estimates by the Alzheimer's Research & Prevention Foundation, following the tenets to ensure a healthy, happy lifestyle are more important than ever. This facet of dementia prevention should be emphasized, as the true benefit is taking steps towards living a better life, with Alzheimer's and dementia prevention being a welcome byproduct.

The most effective methods of preventing dementia include following a healthy diet, getting sufficient exercise, participating in adequate mental stimulation, and being socially active, whether with family or in care homes. These methods can be followed by any one of any age-even those in assisted living programs or nursery homes-to reduce their chances of falling prey to dementia.

Diet

Diets aimed at preventing dementia revolve around reducing inflammation through a reduction in weight, inflammatory foods, and elevated blood sugar, while simultaneously increasing hormetic responses and improving gut flora. Omega 3 supplementation and proper vitamin and mineral levels are also vital to reducing inflammation in the body, and are another core of the dementia prevention diet.

The Mediterranean diet is a somewhat good example of an anti-inflammatory diet, as it eliminates processed food and has a vegetable and fish content. The Mediterranean diet should be changed in a few important ways to combat dementia, and any individuals or nursery homes looking to adjust their menus would benefit from removing the grains as a source of carbohydrate, adding an additional probiotic supplement or fermented food, and also adding a cruciferous vegetable-cauliflower, cabbage, or broccoli-to meals.

Exercise

High intensity exercise knows no age limit, as the body has a remarkable ability to build muscle and regain lost strength, as showcased by Wayne L. Westcott, Ph.D. Westcott's work involved strength training with senior citizens who, prior to participating, were unable to walk unassisted.

Pursuing a proper strength training plan should be approved by one's doctor, but engaging in daily, aerobic activity is every bit as important, and requires much less approval. Performing a simple aerobic exercise such as walking strengthens blood vessels and the cardiovascular system, and should be performed at the minimum of 5 times a week, for at least 30-45 minutes each time. Those who cannot engage in 30 minutes of walking at any one time should instead exercise for however long as they are capable.

Mental Stimulation

As the old adage goes "use it or lose it," so does the important of challenging one's brain weigh heavily in dementia prevention. Simple, effective methods of keeping the brain from becoming lax involve performing tasks with non-dominant hands, practicing at puzzle games, and even reading new authors.

Social Activity

Mankind is notable for its social qualities, as civilization is the result of men and women working together to build something greater than themselves. Current technology has a tendency to isolate individuals, and this should be proactively remedied by planning for social encounters if they do not arise spontaneously. Make it a point to visit a loved one every week, call your friends on the phone, and schedule outings. This will have the primary effect of creating a better life for yourself, and the secondary effects of improving cognition and higher brain function, which are very protective mechanisms against dementia.