Risk Factors for Dementia: What You Can Do About It
New research from the RAND Corporation sheds light on several factors that could significantly increase your risk of developing dementia later in life. While some are unsurprising, others, like the link between living in the South and increased dementia risk, may come as a surprise.
Key Risk Factors for Cognitive Decline
The study analyzed data from the Health and Retirement Study, tracking the health and cognitive abilities of thousands of individuals over time. They identified a range of risk factors, including:
- Age: This is the biggest risk factor, as the chances of developing dementia increase significantly after age 60.
- Poor Health: Factors like diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and stroke significantly increase the risk.
- Cognitive Function: Low cognitive test scores at age 60 are a strong predictor of future cognitive decline.
- Limited Education: Not having a high school diploma was associated with a higher risk of dementia.
- Social Isolation: The study suggests that living in the South may be linked to a higher risk of dementia, though the reasons behind this are not clear.
Other factors the study highlighted include a lack of physical activity, limited hobbies and learning experiences, less conscientious personality traits, never having worked or worked only a few years, and a lack of private health insurance.
Hopeful Signs: Protective Factors and Lifestyle Choices
Though this news might seem daunting, the study also revealed some positive findings. Having a high school diploma, engaging in regular social interaction, staying physically active, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities can help lower your risk.
Dr. Dylan Wint, director of the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, emphasizes the importance of actively keeping your brain