3 WAYS TO PREVENT DEMENTIA YOU SHOULD KNOW

 Some of the most frequent queries about dementia and Alzheimer's Dr. Sportelli delves further into the roots of the condition, how to prevent it, and whether or not you are at risk. This is a huge one; there is something called cognitive reserve, and I'm sure you guys can figure out what that means.

It turns out that people who work in intellectual fields or use their minds frequently have a lot of cognitive reserves. As a result, dementia tends to progress somewhat more slowly in these individuals. Yes, absolutely. I frequently hear people suggest things like doing a crossword or brushing their teeth with their non-dominant hands.

 It's funny because I'm in the doctor's office. The literature doesn't really support it, but it won't hurt you, right? It will keep you busy and keep your mind off of other things, so it won't hurt, he said. We were having coffee with a well-known neurologist in the doctor's lounge, and I asked him this very question. 

I've been reading the literature diligently because I obviously want to provide the best answers I can here. Are you ready for this? Most research suggests that maintaining a healthy heart and cardiovascular lifestyle also applies to maintaining the cognitive reserve. 

For example, if we don't smoke, eat a healthy diet—in particular, the Mediterranean diet, which may have some protective effects against dementia—remain physically active, and maintain our social connections by participating in our communities. 

And avoid alcohol use, all of these things will help us maintain a cognitive reserve. volunteering, er, later working, yes These are the modifiable risk factors; genetics cannot be changed. If you are depressed, you are more likely to have dementia, and that does make scientific sense because.

 We know when we look at the brains of people who are depressed they have issues with the part of the brain that controls emotion. So, it is clear from the research that treating depression will reduce your likelihood of acquiring dementia in the future since you are reducing that risk factor.