Six factors contributing to dementia!

Dementia could be prevented if people considered six risk factors for a neurological condition.

smoking

Alzheimer’s Research UK explains: “Smoking is known to increase the risk of vascular disease, including stroke or any small bleeding in the brain, which are also risk factors for dementia. In addition, toxins in cigarette smoke cause inflammation and cell fatigue, both of which are linked to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

Even passive smoking has been linked to the risk of dementia. The higher your exposure, the greater the risk.

Hearing loss

The charity adds that “people with hearing impairments are also more likely to develop dementia.”

Although the connection is not well understood, experts at the Social Security Institute of Excellence (SCIE) suggest that “difficulties in communication may be one reason.”

By participating in conversations with other people, people with hearing loss can benefit from wearing a hearing aid.

high blood pressure

The Alzheimer’s Association notes that years of research has shown that high blood pressure, especially in middle age, can increase the risk of developing vascular dementia.

The National Health Service defines high blood pressure as 140/90 mm Hg. Art. or higher or 50/90 mmHg Art. and above for persons over 80 years of age.

Ideal blood pressure readings are in the range of 120/80 mmHg. up to 140/90 mmHg, and this can be achieved as follows:

– Reducing salt intake.

Eat a balanced, low-fat diet.

Drink less caffeine.

– stop smoking.

– Reduce your alcohol intake.

physical inactivity

By moving more, you can help reduce high blood pressure and lower your risk of dementia.

The National Health Service recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of exercise a week.

To make this goal more achievable, it’s helpful to include three 10-minute periods of activity five times per week.

Excessive drinking

Drinking more than 14 units of alcohol per week is considered excessive according to the NHS.

To put units of measure in perspective, 25 ml equals 1 unit, while, for example, a 175 ml glass of wine would be approximately 2.3 units of alcohol.

The Alzheimer’s Association says: “Excessive alcohol consumption over a long period of time can lead to brain damage. People who drink heavily over a long period of time are more likely to have reduced white matter volume in the brain, which helps relay signals between different parts of the brain.”

Rare social contact

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that social isolation is associated with a 50 percent increased risk of developing dementia.

And regular contact with immediate family and friends can be a way to stay connected in the community.

Or consider enrolling in a new class, joining a book club, such as volunteering or taking up a community hobby.

Source: Express