On the younger side: reducing your risk of dementia.

Dementia is a topic that has been studied extensively, and new studies continue to shine a light on the condition. Scientists now believe there isn’t a single cause of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. It likely develops from multiple factors, such as age, family history and heredity. While these are risk factors we can’t change, we may be able to influence some through lifestyle modifications.

Some risk factors include:

• Smoking cigarettes.

• Not getting enough aerobic physical activity.

• Excessive alcohol use or binge drinking.

• Being significantly overweight.

• High blood pressure.

• Diabetes.

• Being clinically depressed.

• Hearing loss.

The good news is that these risk factors can be addressed through lifestyle changes. It’s well worth it: Exciting new research now shows that nearly 40% of all Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias may be able to be prevented or delayed. It’s never too late to break old habits and start new ones to help reduce your risk.

Here are some things you can do:

Get active. Aim for at least 20 minutes of aerobic exercise a day, seven days a week. Don’t worry, brisk walking counts! Adding light resistance or strength training can do even more to protect your health. Exercise can help you maintain or lose weight, which contributes to good health now and as you age.

Protect your heart. Some of the strongest evidence links brain health to heart health. Work with your doctor to monitor your heart health and treat any problems that arise.

Manage blood sugar. If you have diabetes, get your blood sugar under control. And even if you’re not diabetic, watch your sugar intake and avoid highly processed carbohydrate foods like white bread. Making small modifications can help — such as not adding sugar to meals; eating more whole-grain, high fiber foods; making fresh fruits and vegetables your go-to snack and drinking more water.

Prevent and correct hearing loss. If you’re repeatedly exposed to loud noises (like power tools) over time, it may cause hearing loss. Take steps to protect your hearing and talk to a hearing care professional if you think you may have hearing loss.

Find support. If you suffer from depression, contact your health care provider or therapist, and stay connected with your friends and family for support. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing related chronic conditions is good for your overall physical health, facilitates and improves brain health, and may help decrease the risk of dementia or slow its progression.

Sources: CDC, American Heart Association and Alzheimer’s Association

This article first appeared in Huntington Senior Care Network’s 50+ Health Connection Newsletter. For more information about Senior Care Network resources, go to: Senior Care Network | Huntington Hospital (huntingtonhealth.org)