How To Prevent Dementia

Dementia cases are estimated to reach 78 million globally by 2030, with 10 million cases every year. This is partially due to a large elderly population thanks to advances in medical interventions. Dementia can touch any person, but impacts people in low and middle income countries at a higher rate.

The Lancet Commission summarizes the research related to risk factors for developing dementia and has provided the following list of 14 influences to be aware of. According to the latest evidence, 45% of dementia cases could be delayed or prevented.

Risk Factors for Dementia

Early Life and Adolescence

Less Education = 5% Risk Factor: Education was listed a key factor, specifically higher education, the more education one has in early childhood, the better.

Midlife

Hearing Loss = 7% Risk Factor

High LDL Cholesterol = 7% Risk Factor

Depression = 3% Risk Factor

Traumatic Brain Injury = 3% Risk Factor

Physical Inactivity = 2% Risk Factor

Diabetes = 2% Risk Factor

Smoking = 2% Risk Factor

Hypertension = 2% Risk Factor

Obesity = 1% Risk Factor

Excessive Alcohol = 1% Risk Factor

Late Life

Social Isolation = 5% Risk Factor

Air Pollution = 3% Risk Factor

Visual Loss = 2% Risk Factor

By interpreting the data based on life stage, we can focus on the most impactful steps for our age or the age of our loved ones. Some items are less in our control, like air pollution, but if this is a chronic issue where you live, one could consider investing in air purifiers and considering the amount of time spent outdoors.

Speech therapists routinely track and offer guidance for our clients' ability to participate, which naturally includes hearing and vision loss, and these together account for a 9% increase in risk. When you think about it, it makes sense that if we cannot hear and/or see what is going, our brains will not stay as active. A significant protective ingredient for preventing dementia is staying mentally active, using our brain to think, make decisions, attend, and remember on a regular basis.

If you are worried about cognitive decline, speak with one of our providers about assessing your current abilities and seeing if therapy is right for you.

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