Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the United States and becomes more widespread as the population gets older. Currently, there are approximately 6.7 million Americans over the age of 65 living with Alzheimer’s. This number is expected to increase to 13.8 million by the 2050.
Genetics and family history, along with age, play a large part in a person’s individual risk for developing Alzheimer’s dementia. But there are many other risk factors that weigh in as well. You may not be able to fight genetics, but you may have some control over many other factors.
High Blood Pressure
Fact: Elevated blood pressure in middle age increases risk of dementia and AD. Keeping an eye on your blood pressure and taking steps to be sure it stays in a healthy range is important to help prevent dementia. The blood pressure goal endorsed by the American Heart Association is less than 120/80.
Fix: Low salt diet (less than 2 gm daily), regular physical activity, limiting or avoiding alcohol, and smoking cessation are all great ways to help manage blood pressure. Your doctor may also prescribe a medication to control your blood pressure.
High Cholesterol
Fact: There is a link between elevated LDL-C or total cholesterol at middle age and the risk of AD. In fact, some studies show a THREE TIMES higher risk of AD in middle aged adults with high total cholesterol. Higher cholesterol in older adults is also linked with a faster rate of mental decline in patients with AD.
Fix: Low fat diet and increased physical activity can help keep cholesterol in check. Your doctor will be able to monitor this and recommend other ways to manage cholesterol.
Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes
Fact: Patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes are approximately 1 ½ times more likely to develop AD. Studies have shown that insulin helps protect the brain. Insulin resistance in type 2 diabetic patients may lead to mental decline and dementia. Middle aged patients with obesity are most at risk for developing AD.
Fix: These conditions are best managed with the help of your doctor with dietary changes, exercise, and medications as needed.
Tobacco Use
Fact: Smoking and tobacco use have been shown to speed mental decline. They affect the delivery of oxygen to the brain, damage blood vessels, and decrease the volume of gray matter (essential tissue in your brain and spinal cord.) Since tobacco products contribute to many other risk factors on this list, stopping tobacco use is one of the best things you can do to reduce your risk of AD.
Fix: Stop smoking! It may take you a few tries, but don’t give up. Your doctor and other resources can help.
Physical Exercise
Fact: People who are physically active, especially in early and middle adulthood, have a lower chance of suffering from dementia and mental decline. Physical activity also plays a part in other risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol.
Fix: Start with a 15-minute walk three times a week and ramp up as you feel you are able. Check out local exercise classes or take a chance on a hike for exercise and a view. Soon you’ll be reaping the benefits!
Brain Training
Fact: Activities that enhance memory and problem-solving skills can help keep your brain working at its best. Studies have shown an active mind can keep mental decline at a slower pace. However, more research is needed to see exactly why and how this works.
Fix: Try an online class or take one at a local college. Or maybe learning to play an instrument or learning a new language is more your style. Puzzles and playing board games also help.
To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and ways you can support families and people living with the disease, visit
alz.org/RochesterNY.
Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia.™ For more information, visit www.alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.
Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia.™ For more information, visit www.alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.