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18 science-backed targets for dementia prevention.
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What is dementia?
Dementia is a condition where abnormal proteins build up around brain cells and interfere with their communication.
This leads to gradual difficulties with memory, speaking, movement, and other brain and body functions.
Can Dementia be Prevented?
Yes. In at least 50% of cases, the disease can be prevented. This percentage is likely even higher, since only 10% of dementia cases are linked to your genetics.
Even in those who already have mild cognitive impairment, 25-40% of people can reverse or slow the disease.
How is this possible?
Symptoms of brain disease appear when the brain is no longer in balance. This loss of balance is called loss of homeostasis.
By reducing things that damage the brain, and increasing things that support and strengthen it, we can help the brain stay balanced and delay or in some cases even prevent the onset of symptoms.
This ability to withstand brain disease is called your cognitive reserve.
How can we build cognitive reserve?
There are at least 18 targets for dementia prevention that can improve your brain strength or reduce damage, thereby improving your cognitive reserve.
The 18 targets are:
When Do I Need to Start?
Earlier the better.
The abnormal proteins that cause dementia start to build up in the brain 10 to 30 years before symptoms appear. This means most people should begin taking steps to prevent dementia in mid-life, around age 40-65.
Is it too late if I am already forgetful?
No. Even when memory symptoms appear people can make changes to recover or slow the disease.
It is only once the disease is in moderate stages that lifestyle changes are unlikely to make a significant difference (based on what we know right now).
Aldora will teach you how to optimize your brain health
Through strengthening your cognitive reserve we can increase your chances of a long and healthy life.
Next step: learn the basics of prevention with our free introductory articles.
Disclaimer: The content on Aldora Health is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. For more information, view our Terms of Use.