It’s not always possible to prevent dementia, but with the right interventions, you may be able to slow down the process.
Work with your doctor to find the cause. “The earlier you identify the cause of why your brain’s not working well, the more treatment choices you’ll have and the better your outcomes will be,” says Scharre.
Complete a cognitive assessment to track changes. Ask your doctor to administer a cognitive test, such as the Self-Administered Gerocognitive Exam, and track your results over time. You can also do the test yourself to establish a baseline and repeat it yearly. Tell your doctor if you drop two or three points.
Address heart risk factors. Your brain needs good blood flow to function, so protect your blood vessels. Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, and take steps to control them if they’re too high. And if you smoke, now is the time to quit.
Use it or lose it. Build up your cognitive reserve, which is your starting point for thinking and memory. Read, do puzzles, play the piano — whatever activities will exercise your brain. “You’re building up new connections,” says Scharre. “You have more reserves. So if you do have any kind of degenerative disorder or anything else, you have a buffer.”
Move your body. Physical activity challenges the brain in addition to the muscles, says Scharre. Your brain monitors your muscle and lung activity and helps you set your pace.
Be social. “Maintaining a good community and staying in touch with family and friends as you get older has been shown to be really important,” says Bevins. Conversation is like a workout for your brain. “Someone makes a comment, you’re interpreting it, your brain is working,” says Scharre. Even sitting on a bench and watching people walk by can stimulate your mind.
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