Lifestyle changes, daily brain activities can reduce dementia risk, Louisiana doctors say
Watching a loved one lose their memory is one of life’s most painful experiences. As dementia progresses, the individual’s personality and identity can seem to fade, leaving families heartbroken and overwhelmed.
The good news? Experts say lifestyle changes and daily brain activities can significantly reduce dementia risk — even for those with a genetic predisposition.
Major Findings on Dementia Prevention
Research into dementia prevention continues to grow. In 2024, the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care found that up to 45% of dementia cases could potentially be prevented. Their findings highlighted 14 key lifestyle risk factors, including:
- Incomplete secondary education
- Hearing loss
- High LDL cholesterol
- Depression
- Traumatic brain injury
- Physical inactivity
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Hypertension
- Obesity
- Excessive alcohol use
- Social isolation
- Air pollution
- Untreated vision loss
Addressing these factors early can play a crucial role in maintaining long-term brain health.
Lifestyle Changes to Lower Dementia Risk
Dr. Virginia Kellner, a neurologist from Lafayette, Louisiana, stresses that lifestyle changes are powerful tools in the fight against dementia. According to Dr. Kellner, even people at high genetic risk can greatly lower their chances of developing dementia through healthy habits.
Key lifestyle changes include:
- Engaging in brain-stimulating activities like puzzles, reading, and learning new skills
- Protecting hearing by minimizing exposure to loud noises
- Staying socially active to prevent isolation
- Seeking treatment for vision problems
- Managing sleep quality and reducing daily stress
The most critical period for making these changes is between ages 18 and 65, but it’s never too late to start improving brain health.
The Impact of Diet on Brain Health
Diet plays a vital role in reducing dementia risk. One eating plan showing strong results is the MIND Diet — short for Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay.
The MIND Diet is a combination of the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension). Together, they emphasize foods that are especially beneficial for brain health, such as:
- Leafy greens and other vegetables
- Berries
- Nuts
- Whole grains
- Fish
- Olive oil
Dr. Cathy Champagne, a lead developer of the DASH diet at Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, explains that the DASH diet not only lowers blood pressure but also reduces stroke risk, improves metabolism, and protects heart health — all important for a healthy brain.
“It is scientifically proven to lower blood pressure, lower the risk of stroke, and improve overall metabolism, regardless of body size,” Dr. Champagne said.
Following a diet like the MIND plan can be simple, family-friendly, and sustainable for life.
Why Early Action Matters
Preventing dementia is not about waiting until old age to start making changes. Experts emphasize that adopting healthy lifestyle habits as early as possible — ideally in midlife — offers the strongest protection against cognitive decline.
By investing in education, protecting hearing and vision, staying physically and socially active, and eating a brain-healthy diet, individuals can dramatically lower their dementia risk.
Take Charge of Your Brain Health Today
Dementia is not an inevitable part of aging. With the right steps, you can protect your memory and quality of life for decades to come.
Start today by:
- Scheduling a hearing and vision check
- Joining a social club or volunteering
- Adding brain-boosting foods to your meals
- Committing to regular exercise and stress management
Want more tips on brain health?
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