Dementia is a disease that often affects elderly people. When experiencing dementia, a person will lose memory or even changes in personality.
There are two kinds of dementia, Alzheimer’s which is caused by parts of the brain that is not functioning as well as vascular dementia caused by lack of blood to the brain. Some cases of dementia can also be caused by genetic disorders.
Even so, dementia can still be prevented, even in elder people. Here are some steps to prevent dementia, as reported by the Times of India.
1. Eat Fish
Research shows that omega-3 fatty acids can prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia. For that reason, you should consume more cold-water fish such as tuna, salmon, sardines, or consume fish oil supplements rich in omega-3.
2. Do not get stressed
Stress can make the brain work harder. A Swedish study in 2010 showed that women who are stressed are more likely to suffer from dementia when older. For that reason, you should not easily get stressed. If you start to get stressed, immediately consult a doctor and treat your stress.
3. Getting enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential for a healthy body and brain. Patients who have trouble sleeping often associated with the emergence of Alzheimer’s disease later in life. Make sure you get enough sleep every day. People Who Sleeps Less than 5 Hours or More than 9 Hours Are At Risk of Dementia.
4. Avoid alcohol
The habit of drinking alcohol and smoking can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease up to seven years. Quitting smoking can improve blood circulation to the brain. Drinking alcohol should also be reduced.
5. Socializing
Dementia can be prevented by frequent association and socialize actively with others. Socializing with others is known to increase brain connections, which are not easily hurt in the future. So, do not be a loner. Gather with others to talk or just catch up.
6. Avoid junk food
Dementia can also be influenced by the food you eat. A study linking diabetes blood sugar, high levels of sugar and fat in the blood, with Alzheimer’s. To prevent Alzheimer’s disease, you should avoid foods that contain saturated fat and cholesterol. Meet your nutritional needs by eating vegetables and fruits.
7. Mental Exercise
Sharpen your brain with a game that can sharpen the brain, such as puzzles, chess, and more. Activities that sharpen the brain will strengthen connections between nerve cells in the brain. This will make the brain more resistant to damage. At least you should often read a book to make the brain stay active.
8. Maintaining heart health
Maintaining the heart is also important for maintaining brain health. All this is about smooth blood circulation. The brain uses about 20 percent of the oxygen in the blood flowing through the body. To that end, do not forget to exercise to keep the heart healthy. You do not have to go to a gym every day. About 20 minutes of exercise each day is enough to maintain fitness.
Keep your body and your brain healthy from now on. Dementia can be tackled with eight steps above.