Many people still believe – wrongly – that dementia is a normal part of ageing. That’s why the theme for this September’s World Alzheimer’s Month is “Never too early, never too late”.
Although you are more at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia the older you become, dementia is not a normal part of ageing.
Apparently, current thinking is that there are more than 20 genes which affect your risk of developing Alzheimer’s, but they are estimated to account for less than 1% of dementia cases. So that’s great news.
The other great news is that although we can’t change our genes or stop ageing, there are changes that we can make to reduce our risk of dementia. And these changes may prevent or delay up to 40% of cases.
The 12 dementia risk factors are:
1. Physical inactivity
2. Smoking
3. Excessive alcohol consumption
4. Air pollution
5. Head injury
6. Infrequent social contact
7. Less education
8. Obesity
9. High blood pressure
10. Diabetes
11. Depression
12. Hearing impairment
There’s lots more helpful information on the subject at Alzheimer’s Disease International.
If you know anyone living with dementia or in social isolation who might benefit from socialising, you can find out more on our A day with us page.
Check out the latest research news regarding dementia from TV programs to drugs research. There has been much in the media recently.
Published: 1 September 2023
