What are the risk factors of getting dementia

We have covered some of the common risk factors for getting dementia here and why the research points to this. 

Smoking

Is thought to be one of the biggest risks to your health on many levels but increases the chance of being diagnosed with dementia, significantly. Because of the way in which cigarettes impact the lungs as well as the toxins contained within them, can have an impact on you and the evidence suggests that this increases your risk of developing dementia. The impact on the areas of the brain that are linked to cognitive activities can also be impacted. So if there was any doubt, the evidence is clear and it’s time to give up.

Lung disease

Recent research has concluded that having a lung disease can increase your risk of dementia. Chronic obstructive lung diseases where the lung is inflamed and capilliaries are incapable of carrying out their function as they should, can lead to an increased dementia risk. Issues such as asthma, pulmonary disease and sarcoidosis have been cited. Ensure that you discuss your concerns with your doctor or specialist.

The odds aren’t great

Research suggests that 1 in 14 people over 65 is diagnosed with dementia and the risk factor increases as you approach 80 with 1 in 8 people being diagnosed. Remember to keep your brain active, keep your body healthy and follow a fitness routine to support your health. 

Parkinsons and Huntingdons 

Because of the way in which these diseases impact the brain, they are thought to increase a patient’s risk of getting dementia as they progress through the disease. 

Stroke

There are various dementia diseases which include the blockage of parts of the brain, these can be with proteins or blood clots. This is why when a patient has suffered a stroke, they are at risk of contracting dementia. The damage to the brain can lead to cells dying and brain matter wastage.

Head trauma

Having a head trauma can increase your risk of dementia in later life, so make sure you always wear a helmet when riding a bike, or horse riding, skiing or other sports that you are at risk of getting a head trauma from.

Exercise

Not carrying out a healthy exercise routine daily can lead to a risk in being diagnosed when you are older. Cardiovascular activities such as running, or tennis, can support your own health. The key is to ensure that your lifestyle includes activities that enable you to get your heart rate up and the blood pumping around your body. The better the blood flow, the more it will reach across your brain cells and keep the brain active. These activities can be more difficult as age sets in, so try to ensure you get yourself out for a brisk walk daily. 

Bad diet

A diet that is high in cholesteral and fats can be bad for your body as it encourages deposits and build ups within your veins and arteries. Which increases your stroke and dementia risk. Stick to a diet that is low in carbs and balanced, as with everything. Make sure you stay on top of your weight and watch what you consume. 

Bad booze

Drinking an excessive amount of alcohol is thought to impact your dementia risk. Significant alcohol intake over several years can lead to brain damage that is permanent even if the patient stops drinking. Alcohol can shrink vessels within the brain, which leads to the damage in certain areas. Therefore if you want to reduce your risk, cut the alcohol intake to support your brain health.

No more stress

High blood pressure is thought to impact your chances of getting dementia. Because of the impact that high blood pressure can have on your brain and the vessels within it. Much like alcohol, it can have a damaging and long lasting impact. Try to engage in activities that support reducing stress levels, such as yoga and mindfulness, as well as eating a healthy diet that reduces cholesterol intake. 

Genetics

Some forms of dementia can be passed on through genetic mutations that occur in genes, whilst other dementia diseases do not appear to have any genetic link.

Depression

There are some schools of thought who believe that late life depression can have an impact or some link to dementia. The fact that depressive episodes can include social isolation and keeping away from social events and activities, it is thought that time spent alone is not as good for your brain’s activity and health. 

Summary

There are some elements which increase your dementia risk and although age is a factor, there are others that have been founds to have a much more significant risk. If you want to reduce your dementia risk, the core things to focus on are exercise and diet, give up smoking and reduce your alcohol intake. Get yourself into a good sleep pattern and take care of you. It really is an important brain matter.