Prevention & risk reduction

While it is not possible to prevent or cure dementia, there is growing evidence to support lifestyle changes that may help reduce the risk. Research demonstrates that preventive actions are appropriate for most forms of dementia. It is important to note there is no guarantee that what works for one person will work for every individual. Also, there are significant risk factors such as age and family history that cannot be controlled. However, there are strategies that may help reduce the risk of developing dementia.

Diet:

• Fat intake – a high intake of saturated fat is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. Other health conditions, such as high cholesterol, heart disease and stroke, are each linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and Vascular dementia. Reducing dietary saturated fat and total fat intake has numerous health benefits
• Vitamins and antioxidants – Vitamin E is a possible protective factor against dementia. Include vegetables from the Brassica family (such as broccoli, cabbage, bokchoy, radish and cauliflower) in your diet or consider a supplement. It is important to speak with your doctor prior to commencing a supplement as Vitamin E can interact with other medications
• Vitamin B12 and folate – deficiencies in folate and Vitamin B12 are associated with cognitive impairment and dementia. Vitamin B12 is found in a variety of foods including meat, eggs, milk products, fortified breakfast cereals and fortified soy products. Folate may be found in leafy vegetables, fortified cereals, dried beans and peas and sunflower seeds. Your doctor can assess for and treat deficiencies of these vitamins
• Alcohol – light to moderate alcohol consumption may lower the risk of dementia. The National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia recommend a maximum of 2 standard drinks per day for women and 4 standard drinks a day for men with 1-2 alcohol free days per week. Consumption of alcohol within these limits may lower the risk of dementia. However, there is insufficient research evidence to promote alcohol consumption to non-drinkers as a means of reducing dementia risk.

Exercise

• Physical activity – participating in regular physical activity such as walking and strength training is associated with a lower risk of dementia and cognitive decline. Exercise improves blood flow to the brain, reduces cardiovascular risk factors and may stimulate the growth and survival of nerve cells. There are many health benefits associated with regular physical activity. (Refer to Physical activity and exercise).

Leisure / social Activities

• Intellectual stimulation – activities that stimulate the mind such as reading and crosswords protect against cognitive decline and dementia
• Social interactions – social activities such as visiting with friends and relatives, going to clubs or centres and community/volunteer work are associated with a lower risk of dementia.

Occupation

• Exposure to strong electromagnetic radiation is a risk factor for dementia. Such exposure may occur when working with electrical tools including sewing machines, carpentry tools, electric typewriters and welding devices. It is recommended to use shielded electric motors where possible. To date there is no link between the use of mobile phones or computers and dementia. 

Lifestyle

• Blood pressure – high blood pressure in mid-life is a risk factor for dementia. Regular blood pressure checks and control of high blood pressure are recommended
• Diabetes - Prevention of Type 2 diabetes is an important strategy for reducing the risk of dementia. Type 2 diabetes may be prevented by a healthy lifestyle, diet and weight, participation in regular physical activity, non-smoking and control of elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Head injury – head injury may be a risk factor for the subsequent development of dementia. Strategies to minimise the risk of head injury should be adopted wherever possible, for example wearing a helmet when riding a push bike or motorcycle.
• Vascular risk factors – a history of heart disease, cardiac rhythm abnormalities and stroke are risk factors for dementia.

Future directions
Advances in neuroscience, epidemiology, genetics and medical technology have contributed to our growing knowledge of the causes, progression and potential treatment of dementia. Current advances include gene therapy and modification of amyloid, which are both in the very early stages of research. It is likely there will be substantial advances in the understanding of these and other factors on the development of dementia in coming years.

Summary
Although there are risk factors for dementia that cannot be controlled, there are a number of lifestyle strategies that can reduce the risk of developing the illness. It is important to consider the brain and the whole body when making health related decisions and discuss any concerns with your doctor.

Source: Department of Health and Ageing