A new study found that a two-year program of personalized coaching on specific lifestyle changes helped slow and prevent memory loss in a study group of 172 people at high risk of dementia (JAMA Intern Medicine, January 1, 2024;184(1):54-62). Modifiable risk factors identified in this study include hearing loss, high blood pressure, alcohol consumption, obesity, smoking, air pollution, depression, levels of physical activity and socialization, and diabetes management.lancet2020;396:413–446).
Those in the group who received extra instruction improved their memory by 74 percent compared to those who did not receive regular, ongoing extra instruction. Risk factors and quality of life also improved by 145 percent in the special instruction group, compared to only 8 percent in the group that did not receive the instruction program.
the study
Study participants were between 70 and 89 years old and had at least two modifiable risk factors for dementia. The group met with health leaders to discuss their specific risk factors for dementia. They were told how to increase their activity, socialize with more people and adopt behaviors that can help reduce their risk of dementia, including:
• Maintain an active lifestyle with a variety of activities.
• Participate in activities with different people.
• Instead of being passive (lying in bed or sitting most of the time, watching TV or staring into space), be active by reading, using your computer, or solving problems. Use your brain.
• Managing high-risk health conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, overweight, diabetes, and prediabetes.
The control group was mailed every three months with materials covering the same topic of dementia prevention.
Risk factors for dementia and heart attack
Anything that damages arteries is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and dementia (neurology, May 2024;102 (9)). This common increased risk is associated with the same common pro-inflammatory risk factors (Alzheimer’s disease and dementiaDec 2021;17(12):1914-1922), the American Heart Association reports that dementia is strongly associated with a pro-inflammatory diet (stroke, March 15, 2021:52(6A);52:e295–e308). Therefore, the same diet and exercise program that is recommended for preventing inflammation associated with a heart attack is also recommended for preventing and treating dementia.
I recommend
The risk of dementia increases with age. Since heart attack and dementia have the same risk factors, everyone should follow the following: anti-inflammatory lifestyle rules It helps prevent heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and many other diseases.
• Try to exercise every day
• Follow a diet rich in anti-inflammatory plants.
• Avoid being overweight
• Avoid or severely limit alcohol.
• Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke
• Keep vitamin D levels above 30 ng/mL
Dr. Gabe Merkin is a villager.Learn more about www.drmirkin.com
