There are several lifestyle changes that can help prevent vascular dementia. A healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk of developing dementia when you're older
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- Eating a healthy, balanced diet: Eating a nutrient-rich diet, particularly one that has lots of fruits and vegetables, omega 3 oils, and low amounts of salt and saturated fats, will help to reduce your risk of developing dementia. A Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats, has been associated with cognitive benefits in studies2. A diet rich in fruit, vegetables and cereals, and low in red meat and sugar could help reduce dementia risks8.14
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of developing vascular dementia. Weight control is a powerful contributor to better health in later years1.13
- Exercising regularly: Taking regular physical exercise appears to be one of the best things that you can do to reduce your risk of getting dementia. Regular physical exercise can significantly reduce the risk of dementia in older people3. Aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, has been found to improve thinking and memory, as well as reduce dementia rates9. Physical activity reduces the risk of cognitive impairment, mainly vascular dementia, in older people living independently6.12
- Keeping alcohol within recommended limits: Limiting use of alcohol may help cognitive health.16
- Stopping smoking: Smoking is a risk factor for vascular dementia.1
- Keeping your blood pressure at a healthy level: High blood pressure is a risk factor for vascular dementia. Treating high blood pressure with medication and healthy lifestyle changes, such as exercising, may help reduce the risk of dementia1.7
- Keeping your cholesterol level at a healthy level: High cholesterol is a risk factor for vascular dementia. Statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs) are valuable tools for limiting the consequences of established medical disorders1.13
- Managing diabetes: Diabetes is a risk factor for vascular dementia. Hypoglycemic agents and insulin are valuable tools for limiting the consequences of established medical disorders1.13
- Engaging in late-life cognitive activities: Being intellectually engaged by keeping the mind active may benefit the brain.16
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