Dementia is a common disorder among people that are aging, and the most common form of the condition is Alzheimer’s disease. The condition is characterized by not just forgetfulness and significant changes in behavior, but the deterioration of physical health happens as well. Unfortunately, genetics play a role in Alzheimer’s disease.
However, there are ways to control it before it starts and it can be done by doing these 9 things on a consistent basis:
Make Exercise A Priority
Working out is something that must be done each day for a good 15 to 30 minutes, and it is easy to say that you are too busy to exercise. However, your health is a priority and you will need to make the time. Exercise is important to reduce many illnesses from coming on and dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are included. Go dance and listen to your favorite music. Who says it needs to be boring?
Keep Your Brain Active
It is not a surprise that keeping your mind active is a suggestion to help you ward off dementia. You can do this in many ways by learning new things, reading books, taking courses at your leisure, and even learning a new language. Your body needs exercise and so does your brain.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is bad for you and that is not anything that is new as this fact has been known for decades. And it is not a surprise that studies have found that smoking is also linked to the increase in chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease. This means if you are struggling to quit smoking, then you need to work with your doctor to come up with a plan that you can wean yourself off. There is no need to quit cold turkey as that can also increase stress levels. As long as you do end up quitting at the end.
Vitamin B Makes A Difference
Aging comes with higher levels of a chemical called homocysteine which can cause heart health as well as cognitive problems later on. It has been found that taking Vitamin B supplements can help keep the chemical levels low which will significantly reduce the chances of developing the condition as well.
Vitamin D Matters
You know that the sun is an excellent source of Vitamin D, but there are some issues with that. The UV rays are dangerous if exposed to them too long, and people who live in colder climates will not get enough. However, this important vitamin does reduce the risk of developing dementia. Some foods are rich in Vitamin D that you can consume, and supplements are a good source as well.
Wear A Helmet If You Go Biking
Do you ride a motorcycle or are you a bike rider? Then you need to wear a helmet to protect your head from serious injuries which could easily increase the chances of the development of dementia. The same goes for going horseback riding. This is common sense as well because if you don’t wear a helmet, you could end up with even more serious consequences.
Cut Down On The Booze
An occasional glass of red wine is right for you. However, drinking too much booze is not good for you, and it can easily increase the chances of you developing illnesses. That includes dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown that those who don’t drink often are less likely to develop the condition than those who do.
Keep Track Of Your Health
One of the things that many people dislike doing is getting on the scale. However, it is important to track your weight, and measure your blood pressure, and go for check-ups. If you stay at a healthy weight, even if it is not perfect, and your blood pressure and cholesterol levels are reasonable, then the odds of developing the condition are a lot less.
Get Out There And Socialize
Isolation is a risk that happens to those who are facing hardships in life, which unfortunately are inevitable at one point or another. However, it is really important to socialize with your friends and family on some occasions so you don’t end up completely isolating yourself. Isolation is bad for the brain and your overall health. It is not a surprise that it can easily lead to dementia.
If you have a history of dementia in your family, then again, you are likely prone to it. However, doing these 9 things will most definitely help you ward it off. Utilize those tips and stay healthy.
