Forms of dementia like Alzheimer’s may not have one clear cause, but there are things you can do even early on in life to prevent developing serious cognitive decline later on.
Read on to learn about some of the measures you can take to protect yourself against dementia and neurodegenerative disorders in late adulthood.
Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and many other neurodegenerative disorders are linked to chronic insomnia, fatigue, and poor-quality sleep.
Your brain requires seven to eight hours of sleep on a regular basis in order to continue to function properly, so make sure that you get as much rest as you can even in young adulthood in order to protect yourself against memory loss.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol as much as you can, and stay active during the day to promote healthy sleep.
Some studies show that drinking raw fruit and vegetable juices several times a week (at least three) can reduce your likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease by as much as 76%.
Look for the kinds with little or no added sugar, as reducing sugar intake also protects you against dementia as you age.
Strokes and other causes of dementia are linked strongly to heart disease. You can prevent heart disease in part through regular exercise and a healthy diet. A Mediterranean diet, rich in fish, grains, healthy fats like olive oil, and fruits and vegetables, is linked to brain health.
Staying sharp as you age requires using your brain on a regular basis. Take a class in something new, or learn a new language. Play word games like crossword puzzles.
Our brains require continuous stimulation to avoid cognitive decline, so make sure that you are challenging yourself on a regular basis.
Anxiety and stress can increase your risk of Alzheimer’s as you age by over 135%.
If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, seeking therapy or practicing mindfulness (such as meditation or yoga) can do a great deal to ward off signs of dementia and memory loss.
