A new study from the Alzheimer’s Association US called “Protect Brain Health Through Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce Risk” (US POINTER) confirms that improving brain health and even reducing or preventing dementia can succeed for everyone through a combination of:
- Exercise
- Nutrition
- Cognitive Engagement
- Health Monitoring
This is huge news that applies to all age groups. Whether you’re at the age of taking SATs or you’re 70+ and taking memory tests at a doctor’s office, who doesn’t want good brain health?
You’ve probably heard that older adults, women, Black and Hispanic populations, and those with a family history face higher risks of receiving a dementia diagnosis. While some risk factors are beyond our control, this study indicates that combining these four lifestyle factors may help prevent problems and support brain health even in high-risk individuals.
Here Are Some Ways to Take Charge of Your Brain Health Today (Spread the Word!)
Engage in regular exercise. Choose activities that increase your heart rate and blood flow—walking, dancing, yoga, whatever speaks to you. Extra points if you do it with someone else!
Challenge your mind. Be curious. Learn a new skill, try something artistic, or tackle something new and challenging.
Eat right. Include more vegetables and leaner meats while choosing less processed foods that are lower in fat.
Keep up with regular doctor visits. Maintain a healthy weight, control blood pressure, and manage diabetes.
Maybe it’s not easy to do all this at once—and that’s okay! Take it one step at a time. As the saying goes, “How do you eat a whole elephant? One bite at a time.” (And no, please don’t eat elephants! 😊)
Several initiatives to reduce the risk of dementia are already happening or are in the works, so stay tuned for more exciting developments in brain health.
For more information about the US POINTER study, visit: https://www.alz.org/us-pointer/home.asp
If you or a loved one wants to know more about dementia care, “Ask an Advocate” and contact Care Answered. Schedule a call today: Ask an Advocate.