Every three seconds, someone in the world is diagnosed with a type of dementia, a general term for the loss of memory, language and decision-making to the extent that it affects daily life. Dementia, caused by damage to brain cells, is increasingly common and a leading cause of disability and dependency among older Americans. However, evidence suggests that a healthy lifestyle could help prevent severe cognitive decline and a diagnosis of dementia.
“There is no cure for dementia today, so our best course of action is to prevent the disease from developing,” said Jehon Amen, DO, primary care physician at Lake Norman Medical Group, Primary Care Gateway. “Our best chance to reduce our risk of dementia and improve our quality of life is to make a lifelong commitment to healthy living.”
Dr. Amen recommends these lifestyle changes to prevent dementia and lead a healthier life:
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Eat fresh foods: A regular diet of processed and packaged foods is associated with a higher risk of dementia, according to the American Academy of Neurology. Keep your brain and body healthy with whole fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean proteins.
To learn new things: Constantly challenge your mind with new activities and hobbies. Mental exercises such as puzzles, card games or painting can help maintain cognitive function.
Manage your blood pressure levels: High blood pressure, or hypertension, can damage the blood vessels in the brain and, if left unchecked, can also lead to serious conditions such as heart attack and stroke.
Stay Social: Keep up with family, friends, or get involved in your community through clubs and other organizations. Maintaining a social life can greatly benefit memory, ward off loneliness and improve mental health.
Stay active: Cardiovascular exercise increases blood and oxygen flow to the brain and reduces the risk of cognitive decline. Just 30 minutes a day, five times a week of moderate exercise helps maintain mental alertness and improve overall health. Extreme cognitive decline is not a normal part of the aging process. If you or a loved one has memory problems, visit LakeNormanMedicalGroup.com to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician.