THE NEW YORK TIMES – Scientists believe that as many as 45 percent of dementia cases could be delayed or prevented with help from some simple, sometimes surprising, changes in behavior.
We asked eight neurologists and neuroscientists to share their best tips.
1. Wear a helmet.
Physically protecting your head is the single most important step you can take to safeguard your brain, experts said. Recurrent head trauma from traumatic brain injuries and concussions can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (C.T.E.), which can worsen cognition overall, and in some cases cause dementia.
2. Put in earplugs when you’re mowing the lawn.
Older people with hearing loss have a greater risk for developing dementia.
To protect your brain’s ability to process sensory signals, use earplugs or noise-protection earmuffs when you’re around loud sounds, said Dr. Elizabeth Bevins, a neurologist at UC San Diego Health. In addition, people over 50, and anyone frequently exposed to loud noises, should get a hearing test every one to three years, she said.
3. Get your eyes checked.
It’s not only about maintaining your hearing; scientists also believe vision loss is linked to cognitive decline. One 2023 study found that about a third of adults over 71 who had moderate to severe vision impairment also had dementia.
Scheduling regular eye exams and wearing glasses or getting corrective surgery, when needed, could help minimize that risk.
4. Take a walk, and swap your chair for a stool.
Neurologists know that exercise benefits the brain by increasing blood flow and ferrying oxygen to it. Even a small dose of daily exercise — like walking half a mile — can bring those rewards
5. Manage your cholesterol.
The low-density lipoprotein (or “bad”) cholesterol that can come from consuming red meats, full-fat dairy and sugary drinks can harden your arteries, restricting blood flow to the brain and increasing your risk for stroke and cognitive decline …
