Page 44 - Seniors Today - January Issue

Social isolation can heighten the risk of dementia – so make an effort to meet other people and volunteer for social causes

dementia. rates of Alzheimer’s disease and vascular
GENDER Research suggests that women dementia. Studies estimate the protective
show more tendency to develop it than men. effect to be about 30–40 per cent reduced
ETHNICITY There is some evidence to risk of dementia compared to those who do
suggest that people of South Asian, African little or no physical activity.
or African-Caribbean descent may be Try keeping moderately physically
affected to a greater extent. active (aerobic/cardio/walk) for at least 30
There are additional risk factors, including minutes, five times a week. Alternatively,
depression, low educational attainment, you can do vigorous exercises for 20
social isolation, and cognitive inactivity – minutes, thrice a week.
which, to an extent, are in our control.
These factors are responsible for about one
third of the dementia cases seen.

Can it be prevented?
While preventing dementia entirely may
not be possible, there are some factors we
can control – lifestyle changes which could
potentially reduce the risk of dementia.
Physical activity A regular exercise schedule, such as walking for 30
minutes daily, can help lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease
A regular exercise schedule can lower and vascular dementia

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