While some dementia risk factors are out of your control, like age and genetics, there are many other ways you can take action to reduce your overall risk of developing dementia at any point in life.
This November, we’re highlighting some ways you can stay on top of your brain health and reduce your risk of dementia. The more actions you take, the better! And if you can’t improve on one factor, work on improving others – there’s always an opportunity to reduce your dementia risk.
#1 – Move a little every day!
Any physical activity is better than none at all. People who exercise regularly are less likely to develop heart disease, stroke and diabetes – all risks associated with dementia.
Our Minds in Motion® program is a great way for people living with dementia and their care partners to get in some physical activity each week. Check out our Minds in Motion website to learn more.
#2 – Stay socially active
Stay connected and engaged with your family, friends and community. Staying connected socially helps you stay connected mentally. Having an active social life also can reduce your stress, brighten your mood and keep your relationships strong.
Our Minds in Motion and Community Partner Programs are a great way to get out into the community and participate in group activities that also help you get creative, discover new interests and connect with others out in the community. Visit the links above to learn more.
#3 – Manage stress and mental health
By managing or lowering your stress, you can improve your brain health and reduce your risk of dementia. It’s also important to seek support for things like depression, anxiety and loneliness can help improve your mood and brain functioning.
Accessing support groups or supportive counselling through our First Link® Client Support program can help to reduce feelings of caregiver stress and burden, and other difficult feelings that come with navigating dementia.
#4 – Challenge your brain
Just as physical activity improves your body’s ability to function, studies show that keeping your brain active may help reduce your risk of developing dementia.
You can stimulate your brain by learning new information. Attending our monthly Family Education sessions is a great way to learn something new!
#5 – Follow a healthy diet
Healthy dietary choices not only improve your general health, in the long-term nutritious food helps maintain brain function and fights cognitive decline.
Check out this article for some tips on following a healthy diet: Nutritious Choices to Boost Your Brain Health
#6 – Protect your head
Although we are all at risk for head injuries, young people tend to suffer more head traumas. It is important to protect your head, no matter your age, for lifelong brain health.
Visit our Protect Your Head web page on our website for tips to help!
#7 – Protect your heart
Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes closely. What’s good for the heart is also good for the brain.
#8 – Get quality sleep
Work toward sleeping well for 6 to 8 hours each night. If you experience sleep apnea or other sleep issues, talk to your health-care provider for treatment options.
#9 – Manage medical conditions
In collaboration with your health care provider, try to manage your overall health. This is directly linked to your brain health and your ability to avoid dementia as you get older.
#10 – Choose wisely
Research has found that, next to aging (and in some cases, genetics), lifestyle and environmental factors are the most influential factors in determining one’s risk for dementia.
It’s important to protect your body, at any age, for lifelong brain health. Make safe choices that protect you from ailments and trauma that would otherwise increase your risk of dementia.
Follow our social media pages and keep an eye out for the remaining ways to reduce your risk throughout November.
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