A promising new study says lifestyle changes can significantly protect against developing dementia, even if done later in life.
Exercise, an improved diet, and more mental and social activity can substantially help fight back against dementia, according to findings published on July 28. Notably, the researchers found that people at risk can yield benefits even if the changes are started after the age of 60.
The study examined over 2,000 participants between the ages of 60 and 79 who possessed a variety of factors that placed them in a high-risk category for developing cognitive decline. This includes people who did not exercise regularly, ate a poor diet, or had gene mutations linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
The participants included people in both structured and self-guided intervention groups. While cognitive function was found to improve in both groups, the structured cohort experienced significantly greater benefit than their self-guided peers.
The study’s program included performing 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise four days a week. It also recommended a diet low in sodium and high in brain-healthy foods like berries, whole grains, dark leafy greens, and coldwater fish.
The structured cohort also engaged in “brain training” computer games three times a week, and participated in more than three dozen meetings with their peers over the course of the two-year study. The meetings focused on setting goals and keeping one another accountable.
Earlier this year, The Dallas Express reported on a study that found that the risk of developing dementia later in life is much higher than initially believed. The study concluded that there is a 42% risk of Americans developing the disease after the age of 55, more than double the rate previously suspected.