SOCIALIZE FOR BRAIN HEALTH
Social interaction, like meeting friends or foes, is vital for keeping the brain active. Those who lead isolated lives increase their risk of dementia by up to 60%. The lack of stimulation in the brain due to isolation makes it less resistant to aging. Interestingly, the quality of company doesn’t matter; any form of human contact is beneficial.
PRIORITIZE HEARING HEALTH
Research indicates a connection between hearing loss and dementia. For every 10 decibels of hearing loss, the risk of dementia rises by as much as 24%. Using hearing aids can decrease the risk of cognitive decline by 19% and dementia by 17%. Regular hearing tests are available at most high street opticians and pharmacies.
QUIT SMOKING, LOWER DEMENTIA RISK
Around 2% of dementia cases may be connected to smoking. However, quitting smoking eliminates this risk. Studies show that former smokers no longer have an increased risk of dementia. It’s never too late to quit smoking, as even quitting at age 60 can add three years of life expectancy.
ADDRESS DEPRESSION FOR A HEALTHY MIND
Depression in midlife can contribute to dementia development. Treating depression reduces the risk significantly, with studies showing a 38% risk decrease for those receiving both therapy and antidepressants.
Vocabulary List:
- Dementia /dɪˈmɛnʃə/ (noun): A chronic or persistent disorder of the mental processes caused by brain disease or injury characterized by memory disorders personality changes and impaired reasoning.
- Isolation /ˌaɪ.səˈleɪ.ʃən/ (noun): The state of being separated from others; solitude.
- Stimulation /ˌstɪm.jəˈleɪ.ʃən/ (noun): The act of raising levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body or any biological system.
- Cognitive /ˈkɒɡ.nɪ.tɪv/ (adjective): Related to the mental processes of perception memory judgment and reasoning.
- Therapy /ˈθer.ə.pi/ (noun): Treatment intended to relieve or heal a disorder.
- Antidepressants /ˌænti.dɪˈprɛs.ənts/ (noun): Medications used to alleviate symptoms of depression.
How much do you know?
