Alzheimer’s and dementia can be difficult for the person with the condition and their loved ones. The brain is a vital part of the human body, and when it starts to have problems, it can be hard to function regularly in daily life.
So, are there ways to prevent dementia? Here’s a guide on the warning signs of dementia and what things you can do to help prevent it.
What Are the Signs of Dementia?
The Alzheimer’s Association states that “dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life.” It can often cause a decline in mental functions, hindering the person’s ability to care for themselves or others.
There are a variety of different types of dementia that people can suffer from. Dementia is a severe decline in thinking abilities that may vary in symptoms from person to person. Some causes of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, can be progressive so that the symptoms may worsen over time.
Although the signs and symptoms may vary by person, some signs to look out for include:
- Repetitive behavior
- Difficulty with familiar tasks
- Changes in personality or mood
- Getting lost or confused with the current location
- Problems communicating or finding the correct words to say
- Issues with problem-solving or showing poor judgment
- Memory loss
What Are Some Practices for Lowered Dementia Risk?
Although dementia can be difficult to prevent, there are some key ways to help reduce the risk of getting it, including:
- Exercise daily
- Have a balanced diet
- Get plenty of sleep (7-8 hours)
- Don’t smoke
- Stay socially active and meet with family and friends
- Consume alcohol in moderation
- Get help for high blood pressure
Practicing these methods won’t guarantee you won’t get dementia, but it can help reduce the risk.
Read More About Dementia Warning Signs