According to several studies, some lifestyle interventions can help reduce the chances of getting sick or delay the onset of the disease in those at risk.
According to several studies, some lifestyle interventions can help reduce the chances of getting sick or delay the onset of the disease in those at risk.
Among the diseases that often accompany aging, Alzheimer’s is one of the most feared. The main risk factor for its development is its age: after the age of 85, two out of ten people are faced with this form of dementia.
But alongside non-modifiable risk factors such as age, genetics or more generally familiarity, there are also some, essentially linked to lifestyle, on which it is possible to intervene in order to reduce the chances of getting sick or, at the very least, delay the onset of the disease in people at risk.
Modifiable risk factors
Cigarette smoking, alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiency, a sedentary lifestyle, poor mental and social activity, poor diet are all associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s. As well as a positive history of brain trauma, high cholesterol levels and diseases such as diabetes , hypertension, obesity and cerebrovascular disease.
Recent studies indicate, however, that up to three out of ten cases could be prevented simply by intervening on these factors and therefore leading a healthier lifestyle. Changing your habits can help improve your cognitive performance and keep your brain trained and active.
The preventive measures
Avoiding a sedentary lifestyle with regular physical activity is certainly one of the first anti-dementia measures. Physical activity, especially aerobic activity, oxygenates the blood and helps nerve cells. Go ahead, therefore, for walking, cycling, swimming, but also for dancing, yoga , pilates , Tai Chi. Not to mention that exercise , in addition to being good for the brain, helps fight obesity, diabetes and hypertension, all conditions linked to a greater chance of developing Alzheimer’s.
But quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, training your mind and maintaining a relationship life are also great allies. As far as nutrition is concerned, the Mediterranean diet is certainly the model to follow. Green light therefore to lots of fruit and vegetables, to pasta, bread and cereals (preferably wholemeal), to olive oil for seasoning and to large quantities of legumes and fish. To limit instead red meat and sausages, as well as salt and animal fats .
Reading a book, a newspaper, doing crossword puzzles, visiting a museum, but also trying your hand at “brain training” video games or with modern technological tools, are all ways to train the mind, thus promoting brain plasticity. It is equally important not to isolate oneself and lead a life of relationship, occupying free time with activities that keep the body and mind active: socializing, conversing, volunteering, attending places of aggregation.
