Take Action for Your Brain Health: New Findings for Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of our brain health and take steps to reduce the risk of dementia. Groundbreaking updates from the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care offer new hope and insights to protect our brain health. According to the 2024 report, “nearly half of all dementia cases worldwide could be prevented or delayed by addressing 14 modifiable risk factors”.
Two newly identified factors—high LDL cholesterol and untreated vision loss—join the list, expanding the ways individuals can protect their cognitive health. These findings underscore the power of prevention and the critical role of public awareness.
14 Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia
The updated list includes:
Less education in early life
Hearing loss
Traumatic brain injury
High blood pressure
Obesity
Smoking
Depression
Physical inactivity
Diabetes
Excessive alcohol consumption
Social isolation
Air pollution
High LDL cholesterol
Vision loss
Practical Steps to Protect Your Brain Health
There are many actions Canadians can take to support their brain health:
Control High LDL Cholesterol: Work with your healthcare provider to manage your cholesterol levels through diet, exercise, and, if necessary, medication.
Protect Your Hearing and Address Hearing Loss: Wear ear protection when exposed to excessive noise, and use hearing aids for hearing loss.
Address Vision Loss: Regular eye exams and timely treatments for issues like cataracts or vision loss can reduce your risk of dementia.
Stay Socially Connected: Join clubs, volunteer, or engage in activities with friends and family to combat isolation.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity supports both heart and brain health. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: These habits not only improve overall health but also reduce dementia risk.
Prioritize Mental Health: Seek support for managing mental health conditions, such as depression.
Prevent Head Injuries: Wear a bike helmet, take steps to prevent falls, and wear a seatbelt when in a vehicle.
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