Dementia is a neurodegenerative illness that gradually affects the nerve cells of the brain. This is a progressive disorder that aims to impair people’s thinking, conduct, and memory. Unfortunately, this sickness worsens with time and might result in memory loss. According to World Health Organization (WHO) reports on the public health response to dementia, more than 55 million individuals worldwide suffer from dementia, with a new case occurring every three seconds. In reality, the World Health Organization (WHO) claims that dementia is the sixth leading cause of death and a major source of dependency among the elderly, but most people are still uninformed of 0068ow to manage it.
How do I manage dementia?
Although being older is the most significant risk factor for dementia, research indicates that there are steps you can take to lower your own risk. These include certain lifestyle adjustments. According to reports, both mental and physical activities, such as hiking or spending time with family and friends, are lifestyle modifications that may lower the risk of dementia.
Here are 7 lifestyle changes that can help to manage dementia:
- Maintaining an optimum weight
Being overweight or obese can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, all of which are associated with dementia. A well-balanced diet should contain fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains. Make sure that you avoid junk, processed, and canned foods to achieve a healthy weight.
- Exercise daily
It could be surprising to learn that a lack of physical activity tends to increase the risk of developing heart disease, becoming overweight or obese, and developing type 2 diabetes, all of which are linked to dementia. Aging individuals who do not exercise on a frequent basis tend to have a risk of developing memory problems later in life. So, keep up your physical activity on a daily basis. Try activities like vigorous walking, cycling, or dancing. Practice strengthening exercises or yoga.
- Give up on alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol can lead to stroke, heart disease, and cancer, all of which damage the nervous system and the brain. It ultimately contributes to the development of Dementia later in life. Hence, it is mandatory to maintain a healthy lifestyle by limiting your alcohol intake.
- Quit smoking
Are you aware that smoking causes blood vessel narrowing, high blood pressure, and increases your risk of cardiovascular disease? Smoking is a risk factor for dementia because it causes cognitive impairment.
- Stay stress-free
Depression raises the chances of acquiring dementia. Try relaxing techniques such as meditation.
- Take charge of your health
Aging increases the risk of health conditions such as untreated high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes. These conditions are associated with a higher chance of getting Dementia. That is why it is critical that you monitor yourself and adhere to a healthy routine in order to be safe and healthy.
- Eat healthy
Consuming a nutritious diet is extremely important as you get older. A healthy and balanced diet will provide your body with all of the nutrients it requires while also assisting to reduce the risk of other disorders such as Dementia. Consume whole grains such as rice and pasta, fruits and green vegetables, red meat, fish, and plant oils. You should minimize your consumption of sugary foods, alcohol, and salt.
Conclusion
To conclude with the blog, it is possible to reduce the risk of dementia by adopting a holistic approach to an active and healthy lifestyle. This includes indulging in physical activity, enjoying a nutritious diet, meditating, taking quality sleep, and proactively managing stress and other chronic conditions. By making these lifestyle changes, you can not only protect your cognitive health but also enhance your overall well-being.
