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0 48 24 24 0 1 1 0-48z"></path></svg></a></div></div></div><div> <section data-history-node-id="32750" about="/life-with-dementia/can-i-prevent-dementia" class="l-section l-inner"> <div class="row flex-no-wrap"> <div class="col-desktop-4 desktop-only sticky-aside-left"> <nav id="sub-nav" class="sub-nav"> <h5 class="sub-nav-title"> On this page </h5> <ul> <li><a class="sub-nav--link " href="#what-are-risk-factors">Risk Factors</a></li> <li><a class="sub-nav--link " href="#what-do-we-know-about-reducing-risk-for-dementia">Dementia Risk: What We Know </a></li> <li><a class="sub-nav--link " href="#what-can-you-do">What Can You Do?</a></li> <li><a class="sub-nav--link " href="#what’s-next-with-dementia-prevention-research">What’s Next?</a></li> <li><a class="sub-nav--link " href="#find-more-resources-on-dementia-risk-and-brain-health">More Resources on Dementia Risk</a></li> </ul> </nav> </div> <div class="col-12 content-column col-desktop-9"> <div class="page-lead"> <header> <h1 class="page-title"> Can I Prevent Dementia? </h1> </header> <div class="page-lead-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_image_900x400/public/2022-12/reduce-your-risk-image.jpg?itok=9CfhJmHm" alt="Woman exercising with weights to reduce her risk for dementia" typeof="foaf:Image"/> </div> </div>  <div class="tablet-down"> <nav id="sub-nav" class="sub-nav"> <h5 class="sub-nav-title"> On this page </h5> <ul> <li> <a href="#what-are-risk-factors">Risk Factors</a> </li> <li> <a href="#what-do-we-know-about-reducing-risk-for-dementia">Dementia Risk: What We Know </a> </li> <li> <a href="#what-can-you-do">What Can You Do?</a> </li> <li> <a href="#what’s-next-with-dementia-prevention-research">What’s Next?</a> </li> <li> <a href="#find-more-resources-on-dementia-risk-and-brain-health">More Resources on Dementia Risk</a> </li> </ul> </nav> </div> <div class="article-container"> <div class="article-meta"></div> <div class="content-river"> <p>As you age, you may have concerns about the increased risk of dementia. You may have questions, too. Are there steps I can take to prevent it? Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk? There are currently no approaches that have been proven to prevent Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. However, as with many other diseases, there may be steps you can take to help reduce your risk.</p> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor" id="what-are-risk-factors"> <h2> What Are Risk Factors? </h2> <p>A risk factor is something that may increase the chance of developing a disease. Some risk factors can be controlled while others cannot. For example, a person is not able to control their age, which is the greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Another uncontrollable risk factor is a person’s genes. Genes are structures in our body’s cells that are passed down from a person’s birth parents. Changes in genes — even small changes — can cause diseases.</p> <p>Race and gender are also factors that influence risk. Research shows that African Americans, American Indians, and Alaska Natives have the highest rates of dementia, and that risk factors may differ for women and men. Researchers are investigating what’s behind these differences.</p> <p>However, people do have control over their behavior and lifestyle, which can influence their risk for certain diseases. For example, high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. Lowering blood pressure with lifestyle changes or medication can help reduce a person’s risk for heart disease and heart attack.</p> <p>To determine which risk factors may prevent a disease or condition, researchers first conduct observational studies to make associations. They then conduct carefully controlled clinical trials. For example, researchers identified an association between high blood pressure and heart attacks and then completed clinical trials to determine that lowering a person’s blood pressure would indeed lower the likelihood of having a heart attack. This is not to say that people who lower their blood pressure definitely won’t have a heart attack. But it significantly lowers the chances.</p> <p>For Alzheimer’s and related dementias, no behavior or lifestyle factors have risen to the level of researchers being able to say: This will definitely prevent these diseases. But there are promising avenues.</p> </div> <div class="block_callout clearfix paragraph paragraph--type--alz-callout paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor" id="making-healthy-lifestyle-choices-may-reduce-your-risk-of-dementia"> <div class="call-out-small call-out-small--alt"> <div class="call-out-heading"> <h2> Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices May Reduce Your Risk of Dementia </h2> </div> <div class="row "> <div class="col-12 col-tablet-5 col-desktop-4"> <div class="call-out-media"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2022-07/dementia-risk_1.jpg" alt="Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices May Reduce Your Risk of Dementia infographic. Click through for transcript and pdf." typeof="foaf:Image"/> </div> </div> <div class="col-12 col-tablet-7 col-desktop-8"> <div class="call-out-description"> <p><a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/infographics/making-healthy-lifestyle-choices-may-reduce-your-risk-dementia">Read and share this infographic</a> about healthy lifestyle activities that may help reduce your risk of dementia.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor" id="what-do-we-know-about-reducing-risk-for-dementia"> <h2> What Do We Know About Reducing Risk for Dementia? </h2> <p>The number of older Americans is rising, so the number of people with dementia is predicted to increase. However, some studies have shown that incidence rates of dementia — meaning new cases in a population over a certain period of time — have decreased in some locations, including in the United States. Based on observational studies, factors such as healthy lifestyle behaviors and higher levels of education may be contributing to such a decline. But the cause and effect is uncertain, and such factors need to be tested in a clinical trial to prove whether they can prevent dementia.</p> <p>A <a href="https://www.nap.edu/catalog/24782/preventing-cognitive-decline-and-dementia-a-way-forward">review of published research</a> evaluated the evidence from clinical trials on behavior and lifestyle changes to prevent or delay Alzheimer’s or age-related cognitive decline. The review found “encouraging but inconclusive” evidence for three types of behavioral changes (called interventions): physical activity, blood pressure control, and cognitive training. The findings mean that interventions in these areas are promising enough that researchers should keep studying them to learn more. Researchers continue to explore these and other interventions to determine whether — and in what amounts or forms — they might prevent dementia.</p> <p>Watch a video below that highlights conclusions and recommendations from the research review.</p> <p><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NcFdAVrYfns?rel=0" width="640"></iframe></p> </div> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor" id="what-can-you-do"> <h2> What Can You Do? </h2> <p>Although there is no effective treatment or proven prevention for Alzheimer’s and related dementias, in general, leading a healthy lifestyle may help address risk factors that have been associated with these diseases.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Control high blood pressure.</strong> High blood pressure, or hypertension, has harmful effects on the heart, blood vessels, and brain, and increases the risk of stroke and <a href="/alzheimers-dementias/vascular-dementia">vascular dementia</a>. Treating high blood pressure with medication and healthy lifestyle changes, such as exercising and quitting smoking, may help reduce the risk of dementia.</li> <li><strong>Manage blood sugar.</strong> Higher than normal levels of blood sugar, or glucose, can lead to diabetes and may increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, cognitive impairment, and dementia. Making healthy food choices, getting regular exercise, stopping smoking, and checking glucose levels can help manage blood sugar.</li> <li><strong>Maintain a healthy weight.</strong> Being overweight or obese increases the risk for related health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Being active and choosing healthy foods can help maintain a healthy weight.</li> <li><strong>Eat a healthy diet.</strong> Aim for a mix of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and seafood, unsaturated fats such as olive oil, low-fat or nonfat dairy products, and limit other fats and sugars.</li> <li><strong>Keep physically active.</strong> Physical activity has many health benefits, such as helping to prevent being overweight and having obesity, heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. </li> <li><strong>Stay mentally active.</strong> Lots of activities can help keep your mind active, including reading, playing board games, crafting or taking up a new hobby, learning a new skill, working or volunteering, and socializing.</li> <li><strong>Stay connected with family and friends.</strong> Connecting with people and engaging in social activities can prevent social isolation and loneliness, which are linked to higher risks for cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.</li> <li><strong>Treat hearing problems.</strong> Hearing loss may affect cognition and dementia risk in older adults and can make it more difficult to interact with others. Protect your ears from loud sounds to help prevent hearing loss and use hearing aids if needed.</li> <li><strong>Take care of your mental and physical health.</strong> This includes getting your recommended health screenings, managing chronic health issues such as depression or high cholesterol, and regularly checking in with your health care provider.</li> <li><strong>Sleep well.</strong> Sleeping well is important for both your mind and body. Try to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Talk with your doctor if you are not getting enough sleep, sleeping poorly, or think you may have a sleep disorder.</li> <li><strong>Prevent head injury.</strong> Take steps to prevent falls and head injury, such as fall-proofing your home and wearing shoes with nonskid soles that fully support your feet. Consider participating in fall prevention programs online or in your area. Also, wear seatbelts and helmets to help protect you from concussions and other brain injuries.</li> <li><strong>Drink less alcohol.</strong> Drinking too much alcohol can lead to falls and worsen health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, memory loss, and mood disorders. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), part of the National Institutes of Health, recommends that men should not have more than two drinks a day and women only one. Learn more at <a href="https://www.rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih.gov/">NIAAA’s Rethinking Drinking website</a>.</li> <li><strong>Stop tobacco use.</strong> At any age, stopping smoking can improve your health and lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and lung disease.</li> </ul> <p>Researchers cannot say for certain whether making the above lifestyle changes will protect against dementia, but these changes are good for your health and are all part of making healthy choices as you age.</p> </div> <div class="block_callout clearfix paragraph paragraph--type--alz-callout paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor" id="watch-out-for-false-alzheimer’s-cures"> <div class="call-out-small call-out-small--alt"> <div class="call-out-heading"> <h2> Watch Out for False Alzheimer’s Cures </h2> </div> <div class="call-out-description"> <p>Although you might see commercials or online advertisements for products promising to improve brain health and prevent dementia, be cautious about such products. There currently is no product that will effectively prevent or treat Alzheimer’s or related dementias. Check with your doctor before trying any new medication or supplement.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor" id="what’s-next-with-dementia-prevention-research"> <h2> What’s Next With Dementia Prevention Research? </h2> <p>More research is needed to find ways to help prevent Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Future research may determine that specific interventions are needed to prevent or delay the disease in some people, but others may need a combination of treatments based on their individual risk factors. Understanding risk factors and choices you can make now is important for both your present and future health. In addition to this website, consider the resources listed below to learn more.</p> <p>You can also help researchers learn more about preventing dementia by participating in clinical trials and studies. Search the <a href="/clinical-trials/find-clinical-trials">Alzheimers.gov Clinical Trials Finder</a> to find studies that need volunteers.</p> </div> <div class="block_callout clearfix paragraph paragraph--type--alz-callout paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor" id="research-on-alzheimer’s-disease-and-related-dementias"> <div class="call-out-small"> <div class="row "> <div class="col-12 col-tablet-5 col-desktop-4"> <div class="call-out-media"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2024-04/research-dementias-callout.jpg" alt="scientists in a research lab" typeof="foaf:Image"/> </div> </div> <div class="col-12 col-tablet-7 col-desktop-8"> <div class="call-out-heading"> <a name="1654"></a> <h2> Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias </h2> </div> <div class="call-out-description"> <p>The federal government and others are exploring diverse research areas to improve quality of life for people with dementia and to prevent and treat these diseases.</p> </div> <div class="call-out-cta"> <a class="text-button block-card--bold" href="/taking-action/research-activities">Learn more about research activities.</a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--alz-mailchimp-signup paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor" id="sign-up-for-weekly-tips-from-alzheimersgov"> <form method="post" class="subscribe"> <fieldset> <legend class="subscribe-legend"> Sign up for weekly tips from Alzheimers.gov </legend> <div class="subscribe-description"></div> </fieldset> <label class="subscribe-label"><span class="sr-only">Email Address</span><input type="email" name="emailAddress" id="emailAddress" required="" placeholder="Enter Email Address" value=""/></label><button type="submit" class="button undefined">Subscribe<svg aria-labelledby="svg-inline--fa-title-OqvcpQCKZG1T" data-prefix="fas" data-icon="square-envelope" class="svg-inline--fa fa-square-envelope fa-sm mail-icon-right" role="img" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 448 512" aria-hidden="true"><title id="svg-inline--fa-title-OqvcpQCKZG1T">Subscribe</title><path fill="currentColor" d="M64 32C28.7 32 0 60.7 0 96V416c0 35.3 28.7 64 64 64H384c35.3 0 64-28.7 64-64V96c0-35.3-28.7-64-64-64H64zM218 271.7L64.2 172.4C66 156.4 79.5 144 96 144H352c16.5 0 30 12.4 31.8 28.4L230 271.7c-1.8 1.2-3.9 1.8-6 1.8s-4.2-.6-6-1.8zm29.4 26.9L384 210.4V336c0 17.7-14.3 32-32 32H96c-17.7 0-32-14.3-32-32V210.4l136.6 88.2c7 4.5 15.1 6.9 23.4 6.9s16.4-2.4 23.4-6.9z"></path></svg></button><p class="recaptcha-text">This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google <a href='https://policies.google.com/privacy'>Privacy Policy</a> and <a href='https://policies.google.com/terms'>Terms of Service</a> apply.</p></form> </div> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--add-resources paragraph--view-mode--default media-list sidenav-anchor" id="find-more-resources-on-dementia-risk-and-brain-health"> <div class="media-list-container"> <h2> Find More Resources on Dementia Risk and Brain Health </h2> <p>Explore the resources on this website and linked below to find more information from federal government agencies.</p> <div class="media-list-item "> <div class="media-item row v-align-middle"> <div class="media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8"> <span class="meta-data text-x-small"> <span> National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health </span> </span> <a class="media-item-title" href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/assessing-risk-alzheimers-disease">Assessing Risk for Alzheimer's Disease</a> <div> <p>Learn about genetic and other risk factors for early- and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Also available in Spanish.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="media-list-item "> <div class="media-item row v-align-middle"> <div class="media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8"> <span class="meta-data text-x-small"> <span> National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health </span> </span> <a class="media-item-title" href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/preventing-alzheimers-disease-what-do-we-know">Preventing Alzheimer's Disease: What Do We Know?</a> <div> <p>Learn more about the state of Alzheimer’s prevention research, research targets, and what you can do.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="media-list-item "> <div class="media-item row v-align-middle"> <div class="media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8"> <span class="meta-data text-x-small"> <span> National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health </span> </span> <a class="media-item-title" href="https://order.nia.nih.gov/publication/reducing-your-risk-of-dementia">Reducing Your Risk of Dementia</a> <div> <p>View, download, or order a free publication about steps you can take to lead a healthy lifestyle that may help lower your risk of dementia.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="media-list-item "> <div class="media-item row v-align-middle"> <div class="media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8"> <span class="meta-data text-x-small"> <span> Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) </span> </span> <a class="media-item-title" href="https://www.cdc.gov/aging/healthybrain/index.htm">Healthy Brain Initiative</a> <div> <p>Find information on steps to promote brain health, address cognitive impairment, and address the needs of caregivers.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="media-list-item "> <div class="media-item row v-align-middle"> <div class="media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8"> <span class="meta-data text-x-small"> <span> National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health </span> </span> <a class="media-item-title" href="https://www.mindyourrisks.nih.gov/">Mind Your Risks</a> <div> <p>Know the risks of high blood pressure and take steps to manage your risk.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>  </div> <h3> Questions? Contact the ADEAR Center </h3> <p> The Alzheimer’s & related Dementias Education & Referral (ADEAR) Center is a service of the National Institute on Aging at the National Institutes of Health. Call <a href="tel:800-438-4380">800-438-4380</a> or email <a href="mailto:adear@nia.nih.gov">adear@nia.nih.gov</a> to talk with an information specialist. </p> <hr/> <p> <strong>Last updated:</strong> July 9, 2024 </p> <br/> <p> <em> This content is provided by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), part of the National Institutes of Health. 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about=\"/life-with-dementia/can-i-prevent-dementia\" class=\"l-section l-inner\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"row flex-no-wrap\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"col-desktop-4 desktop-only sticky-aside-left\"\u003e\n \u003cnav id=\"sub-nav\" class=\"sub-nav\"\u003e\n \u003ch5 class=\"sub-nav-title\"\u003e\n On this page\n \u003c/h5\u003e\n\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003csidenavitem itemId=\"what-are-risk-factors\" itemTitle=\"Risk Factors\"\u003e\n \u003c/sidenavitem\u003e\n \u003csidenavitem itemId=\"what-do-we-know-about-reducing-risk-for-dementia\" itemTitle=\"Dementia Risk: What We Know \"\u003e\n \u003c/sidenavitem\u003e\n \u003csidenavitem itemId=\"what-can-you-do\" itemTitle=\"What Can You Do?\"\u003e\n \u003c/sidenavitem\u003e\n \u003csidenavitem itemId=\"what’s-next-with-dementia-prevention-research\" itemTitle=\"What’s Next?\"\u003e\n \u003c/sidenavitem\u003e\n \u003csidenavitem itemId=\"find-more-resources-on-dementia-risk-and-brain-health\" itemTitle=\"More Resources on Dementia Risk\"\u003e\n \u003c/sidenavitem\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/nav\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \n \u003cdiv class=\"col-12 content-column col-desktop-9\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"page-lead\"\u003e\n \u003cheader\u003e\n \u003ch1 class=\"page-title\"\u003e\n Can I Prevent Dementia?\n \u003c/h1\u003e\n \u003c/header\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"page-lead-image\"\u003e\n \u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" src=\"/sites/default/files/styles/hero_image_900x400/public/2022-12/reduce-your-risk-image.jpg?itok=9CfhJmHm\" alt=\"Woman exercising with weights to reduce her risk for dementia\" typeof=\"foaf:Image\" /\u003e\n\n\n\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e \u003c!-- end /page-lead --\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"tablet-down\"\u003e\n \u003cnav id=\"sub-nav\" class=\"sub-nav\"\u003e\n \u003ch5 class=\"sub-nav-title\"\u003e\n On this page\n \u003c/h5\u003e\n\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003ca href=\"#what-are-risk-factors\"\u003eRisk Factors\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003ca href=\"#what-do-we-know-about-reducing-risk-for-dementia\"\u003eDementia Risk: What We Know \u003c/a\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003ca href=\"#what-can-you-do\"\u003eWhat Can You Do?\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003ca href=\"#what’s-next-with-dementia-prevention-research\"\u003eWhat’s Next?\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003ca href=\"#find-more-resources-on-dementia-risk-and-brain-health\"\u003eMore Resources on Dementia Risk\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/nav\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"article-container\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"article-meta\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"content-river\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAs you age, you may have concerns about the increased risk of dementia. You may have questions, too. Are there steps I can take to prevent it? Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk? There are currently no approaches that have been proven to prevent Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. However, as with many other diseases, there may be steps you can take to help reduce your risk.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor\" id=\"what-are-risk-factors\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e\n What Are Risk Factors?\n\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA risk factor is something that may increase the chance of developing a disease. Some risk factors can be controlled while others cannot. For example, a person is not able to control their age, which is the greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Another uncontrollable risk factor is a person’s genes. Genes are structures in our body’s cells that are passed down from a person’s birth parents. Changes in genes — even small changes — can cause diseases.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRace and gender are also factors that influence risk. Research shows that African Americans, American Indians, and Alaska Natives have the highest rates of dementia, and that risk factors may differ for women and men. Researchers are investigating what’s behind these differences.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, people do have control over their behavior and lifestyle, which can influence their risk for certain diseases. For example, high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. Lowering blood pressure with lifestyle changes or medication can help reduce a person’s risk for heart disease and heart attack.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo determine which risk factors may prevent a disease or condition, researchers first conduct observational studies to make associations. They then conduct carefully controlled clinical trials. For example, researchers identified an association between high blood pressure and heart attacks and then completed clinical trials to determine that lowering a person’s blood pressure would indeed lower the likelihood of having a heart attack. This is not to say that people who lower their blood pressure definitely won’t have a heart attack. But it significantly lowers the chances.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor Alzheimer’s and related dementias, no behavior or lifestyle factors have risen to the level of researchers being able to say: This will definitely prevent these diseases. But there are promising avenues.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"block_callout clearfix paragraph paragraph--type--alz-callout paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor\" id=\"making-healthy-lifestyle-choices-may-reduce-your-risk-of-dementia\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-small call-out-small--alt\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-heading\"\u003e\n \n\n \u003ch2\u003e\n Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices May Reduce Your Risk of Dementia\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"row \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"col-12 col-tablet-5 col-desktop-4\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-media\"\u003e\n \u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" src=\"/sites/default/files/2022-07/dementia-risk_1.jpg\" alt=\"Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices May Reduce Your Risk of Dementia infographic. Click through for transcript and pdf.\" typeof=\"foaf:Image\" /\u003e\n\n\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"col-12 col-tablet-7 col-desktop-8\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-description\"\u003e\n \n \u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/infographics/making-healthy-lifestyle-choices-may-reduce-your-risk-dementia\"\u003eRead and share this infographic\u003c/a\u003e about healthy lifestyle activities that may help reduce your risk of dementia.\u003c/p\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor\" id=\"what-do-we-know-about-reducing-risk-for-dementia\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e\n What Do We Know About Reducing Risk for Dementia?\n\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe number of older Americans is rising, so the number of people with dementia is predicted to increase. However, some studies have shown that incidence rates of dementia — meaning new cases in a population over a certain period of time — have decreased in some locations, including in the United States. Based on observational studies, factors such as healthy lifestyle behaviors and higher levels of education may be contributing to such a decline. But the cause and effect is uncertain, and such factors need to be tested in a clinical trial to prove whether they can prevent dementia.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003ca href=\"https://www.nap.edu/catalog/24782/preventing-cognitive-decline-and-dementia-a-way-forward\"\u003ereview of published research\u003c/a\u003e evaluated the evidence from clinical trials on behavior and lifestyle changes to prevent or delay Alzheimer’s or age-related cognitive decline. The review found “encouraging but inconclusive” evidence for three types of behavioral changes (called interventions): physical activity, blood pressure control, and cognitive training. The findings mean that interventions in these areas are promising enough that researchers should keep studying them to learn more. Researchers continue to explore these and other interventions to determine whether — and in what amounts or forms — they might prevent dementia.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWatch a video below that highlights conclusions and recommendations from the research review.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe allowfullscreen frameborder=\"0\" height=\"360\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/NcFdAVrYfns?rel=0\" width=\"640\"\u003e\u003c/iframe\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor\" id=\"what-can-you-do\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e\n What Can You Do?\n\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAlthough there is no effective treatment or proven prevention for Alzheimer’s and related dementias, in general, leading a healthy lifestyle may help address risk factors that have been associated with these diseases.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eControl high blood pressure.\u003c/strong\u003e High blood pressure, or hypertension, has harmful effects on the heart, blood vessels, and brain, and increases the risk of stroke and \u003ca href=\"/alzheimers-dementias/vascular-dementia\"\u003evascular dementia\u003c/a\u003e. Treating high blood pressure with medication and healthy lifestyle changes, such as exercising and quitting smoking, may help reduce the risk of dementia.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eManage blood sugar.\u003c/strong\u003e Higher than normal levels of blood sugar, or glucose, can lead to diabetes and may increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, cognitive impairment, and dementia. Making healthy food choices, getting regular exercise, stopping smoking, and checking glucose levels can help manage blood sugar.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaintain a healthy weight.\u003c/strong\u003e Being overweight or obese increases the risk for related health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Being active and choosing healthy foods can help maintain a healthy weight.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEat a healthy diet.\u003c/strong\u003e Aim for a mix of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and seafood, unsaturated fats such as olive oil, low-fat or nonfat dairy products, and limit\u0026nbsp;other fats and sugars.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKeep physically active.\u003c/strong\u003e Physical activity has many health benefits, such as helping to prevent being overweight and having obesity, heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStay mentally active.\u003c/strong\u003e Lots of activities can help keep your mind active, including reading, playing board games, crafting or taking up a new hobby, learning a new skill, working or volunteering, and socializing.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStay connected with family and friends.\u003c/strong\u003e Connecting with people and engaging in social activities can prevent social isolation and loneliness, which are linked to higher risks for cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTreat hearing problems.\u003c/strong\u003e Hearing loss may affect cognition and dementia risk in older adults and can make it more difficult to interact with others. Protect your ears from loud sounds to help prevent hearing loss and use hearing aids if needed.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTake care of your mental and physical health.\u003c/strong\u003e This includes getting your recommended health screenings, managing chronic health issues such as depression or high cholesterol, and regularly checking in with your health care provider.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSleep well.\u003c/strong\u003e Sleeping well is important for both your mind and body. Try to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Talk with your doctor if you are not getting enough sleep, sleeping poorly, or think you may have a sleep disorder.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrevent head injury.\u003c/strong\u003e Take steps to prevent falls and head injury, such as fall-proofing your home and wearing shoes with nonskid soles that fully support your feet. Consider participating in fall prevention programs online or in your area. Also, wear seatbelts and helmets to help protect you from concussions and other brain injuries.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrink less alcohol.\u003c/strong\u003e Drinking too much alcohol can lead to falls and worsen health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, memory loss, and mood disorders. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), part of the National Institutes of Health, recommends that men should not have more than two drinks a day and women only one. Learn more at \u003ca href=\"https://www.rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih.gov/\"\u003eNIAAA’s Rethinking Drinking website\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStop tobacco use.\u003c/strong\u003e At any age, stopping smoking can improve your health and lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and lung disease.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eResearchers cannot say for certain whether making the above lifestyle changes will protect against dementia, but these changes are good for your health and are all part of making healthy choices as you age.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"block_callout clearfix paragraph paragraph--type--alz-callout paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor\" id=\"watch-out-for-false-alzheimer’s-cures\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-small call-out-small--alt\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-heading\"\u003e\n \n\n \u003ch2\u003e\n Watch Out for False Alzheimer’s Cures\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-description\"\u003e\n \n \u003cp\u003eAlthough you might see commercials or online advertisements for products promising to improve brain health and prevent dementia, be cautious about such products. There currently is no product that will effectively prevent or treat Alzheimer’s or related dementias. Check with your doctor before trying any new medication or supplement.\u003c/p\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor\" id=\"what’s-next-with-dementia-prevention-research\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e\n What’s Next With Dementia Prevention Research?\n\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMore research is needed to find ways to help prevent Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Future research may determine that specific interventions are needed to prevent or delay the disease in some people, but others may need a combination of treatments based on their individual risk factors. Understanding risk factors and choices you can make now is important for both your present and future health. In addition to this website, consider the resources listed below to learn more.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou can also help researchers learn more about preventing dementia by participating in clinical trials and studies. Search the \u003ca href=\"/clinical-trials/find-clinical-trials\"\u003eAlzheimers.gov Clinical Trials Finder\u003c/a\u003e to find studies that need volunteers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"block_callout clearfix paragraph paragraph--type--alz-callout paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor\" id=\"research-on-alzheimer’s-disease-and-related-dementias\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-small\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"row \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"col-12 col-tablet-5 col-desktop-4\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-media\"\u003e\n \u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" src=\"/sites/default/files/2024-04/research-dementias-callout.jpg\" alt=\"scientists in a research lab\" typeof=\"foaf:Image\" /\u003e\n\n\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"col-12 col-tablet-7 col-desktop-8\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-heading\"\u003e\n \u003ca name=\"1654\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\n \n\n \u003ch2\u003e\n Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-description\"\u003e\n \n \u003cp\u003eThe federal government and others are exploring diverse research areas to improve quality of life for people with dementia and to prevent and treat these diseases.\u003c/p\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n \n\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-cta\"\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"text-button block-card--bold\" href=\"/taking-action/research-activities\"\u003eLearn more about research activities.\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \n\u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--alz-mailchimp-signup paragraph--view-mode--default sidenav-anchor\" id=\"sign-up-for-weekly-tips-from-alzheimersgov\"\u003e\n \u003cmailchimpsubscriber topic=\"c1f750c14e\" listId=\"ffe42fdac3\" tag=\"Alzheimers.gov site\"\u003e\n \u003cfieldset\u003e\n \u003clegend class=\"subscribe-legend\"\u003e\n Sign up for weekly tips from Alzheimers.gov\n \u003c/legend\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"subscribe-description\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/fieldset\u003e\n \u003c/mailchimpsubscriber\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--add-resources paragraph--view-mode--default media-list sidenav-anchor\" id=\"find-more-resources-on-dementia-risk-and-brain-health\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-list-container\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e\n Find More Resources on Dementia Risk and Brain Health\n\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eExplore the resources on this website and linked below to find more information from federal government agencies.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \n\n\u003cdiv class=\"media-list-item \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item row v-align-middle\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8\"\u003e\n \u003cspan class=\"meta-data text-x-small\"\u003e\n \u003cspan\u003e National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health\n\u003c/span\u003e\n \u003c/span\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"media-item-title\" href=\"https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/assessing-risk-alzheimers-disease\"\u003eAssessing Risk for Alzheimer\u0026#039;s Disease\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003cdiv\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLearn about genetic and other risk factors for early- and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease.\u0026nbsp;Also available in Spanish.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \n\n\u003cdiv class=\"media-list-item \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item row v-align-middle\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8\"\u003e\n \u003cspan class=\"meta-data text-x-small\"\u003e\n \u003cspan\u003e National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health\n\u003c/span\u003e\n \u003c/span\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"media-item-title\" href=\"https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/preventing-alzheimers-disease-what-do-we-know\"\u003ePreventing Alzheimer\u0026#039;s Disease: What Do We Know?\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003cdiv\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLearn more about the state of Alzheimer’s prevention research, research targets, and what you can do.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \n\n\u003cdiv class=\"media-list-item \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item row v-align-middle\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8\"\u003e\n \u003cspan class=\"meta-data text-x-small\"\u003e\n \u003cspan\u003e National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health\n\u003c/span\u003e\n \u003c/span\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"media-item-title\" href=\"https://order.nia.nih.gov/publication/reducing-your-risk-of-dementia\"\u003eReducing Your Risk of Dementia\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003cdiv\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eView, download, or order a free publication about steps you can take to lead a healthy lifestyle that may help lower your risk of dementia.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \n\n\u003cdiv class=\"media-list-item \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item row v-align-middle\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8\"\u003e\n \u003cspan class=\"meta-data text-x-small\"\u003e\n \u003cspan\u003e Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)\n\u003c/span\u003e\n \u003c/span\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"media-item-title\" href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/aging/healthybrain/index.htm\"\u003eHealthy Brain Initiative\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003cdiv\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFind information on steps to promote brain health, address cognitive impairment, and address the needs of caregivers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \n\n\u003cdiv class=\"media-list-item \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item row v-align-middle\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8\"\u003e\n \u003cspan class=\"meta-data text-x-small\"\u003e\n \u003cspan\u003e National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health\n\u003c/span\u003e\n \u003c/span\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"media-item-title\" href=\"https://www.mindyourrisks.nih.gov/\"\u003eMind Your Risks\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003cdiv\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKnow the risks of high blood pressure and take steps to manage your risk.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c!-- / .content-river --\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\n \n \u003ch3\u003e\n Questions? Contact the ADEAR Center\n \u003c/h3\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\n The Alzheimer’s \u0026 related Dementias Education \u0026 Referral (ADEAR) Center\n is a service of the National Institute on Aging at the National\n Institutes of Health. Call \u003ca href=\"tel:800-438-4380\"\u003e800-438-4380\u003c/a\u003e or\n email \u003ca href=\"mailto:adear@nia.nih.gov\"\u003eadear@nia.nih.gov\u003c/a\u003e to talk with\n an information specialist.\n \u003c/p\u003e\n \u003chr /\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\n \u003cstrong\u003eLast updated:\u003c/strong\u003e July 9, 2024\n \u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cbr /\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\n \u003cem\u003e\n This content is provided by the National Institute on Aging (NIA),\n part of the National Institutes of Health. NIA scientists and other\n experts review this content to ensure it is accurate and up to date.\n \u003c/em\u003e\n \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/section\u003e\n","menuDepth":1,"langCode":"en","type":{"__typename":"EntityType","targetType":"node_type","targetId":"alzheimer_landing_page"},"teaserImage":{"__typename":"Image","url":"https://www.nia.nih.gov/sites/default/files/styles/thumb_300x200/public/2022-12/reduce-your-risk-image.jpg?itok=Vk_r_qtv","title":null,"alt":"Woman exercising with weights to reduce her risk for dementia"},"body":{"__typename":"EntityBody","processed":"\u003cp\u003eAs you age, you may have concerns about the increased risk of dementia. You may have questions, too. Are there steps I can take to prevent it? Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk? There are currently no approaches that have been proven to prevent Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. However, as with many other diseases, there may be steps you can take to help reduce your risk.\u003c/p\u003e"},"breadcrumbs":[{"__typename":"Breadcrumb","url":"/","title":"Home"},{"__typename":"Breadcrumb","url":"/life-with-dementia","title":"Life With Dementia"},{"__typename":"Breadcrumb","url":"","title":"Can I Prevent Dementia?"}],"pageComponents":[{"__typename":"PageComponent","id":1540,"type":"alz_body_section","body":"\u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--full sidenav-anchor\" id=\"what-are-risk-factors\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e\n What Are Risk Factors?\n\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA risk factor is something that may increase the chance of developing a disease. Some risk factors can be controlled while others cannot. For example, a person is not able to control their age, which is the greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Another uncontrollable risk factor is a person’s genes. Genes are structures in our body’s cells that are passed down from a person’s birth parents. Changes in genes — even small changes — can cause diseases.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRace and gender are also factors that influence risk. Research shows that African Americans, American Indians, and Alaska Natives have the highest rates of dementia, and that risk factors may differ for women and men. Researchers are investigating what’s behind these differences.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, people do have control over their behavior and lifestyle, which can influence their risk for certain diseases. For example, high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. Lowering blood pressure with lifestyle changes or medication can help reduce a person’s risk for heart disease and heart attack.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo determine which risk factors may prevent a disease or condition, researchers first conduct observational studies to make associations. They then conduct carefully controlled clinical trials. For example, researchers identified an association between high blood pressure and heart attacks and then completed clinical trials to determine that lowering a person’s blood pressure would indeed lower the likelihood of having a heart attack. This is not to say that people who lower their blood pressure definitely won’t have a heart attack. But it significantly lowers the chances.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor Alzheimer’s and related dementias, no behavior or lifestyle factors have risen to the level of researchers being able to say: This will definitely prevent these diseases. But there are promising avenues.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n"},{"__typename":"PageComponent","id":1692,"type":"alz_callout","body":"\u003cdiv class=\"block_callout clearfix paragraph paragraph--type--alz-callout paragraph--view-mode--full sidenav-anchor\" id=\"making-healthy-lifestyle-choices-may-reduce-your-risk-of-dementia\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-small call-out-small--alt\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-heading\"\u003e\n \n\n \u003ch2\u003e\n Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices May Reduce Your Risk of Dementia\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"row \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"col-12 col-tablet-5 col-desktop-4\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-media\"\u003e\n \u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" src=\"/sites/default/files/2022-07/dementia-risk_1.jpg\" alt=\"Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices May Reduce Your Risk of Dementia infographic. Click through for transcript and pdf.\" typeof=\"foaf:Image\" /\u003e\n\n\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"col-12 col-tablet-7 col-desktop-8\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-description\"\u003e\n \n \u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/infographics/making-healthy-lifestyle-choices-may-reduce-your-risk-dementia\"\u003eRead and share this infographic\u003c/a\u003e about healthy lifestyle activities that may help reduce your risk of dementia.\u003c/p\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n"},{"__typename":"PageComponent","id":1541,"type":"alz_body_section","body":"\u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--full sidenav-anchor\" id=\"what-do-we-know-about-reducing-risk-for-dementia\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e\n What Do We Know About Reducing Risk for Dementia?\n\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe number of older Americans is rising, so the number of people with dementia is predicted to increase. However, some studies have shown that incidence rates of dementia — meaning new cases in a population over a certain period of time — have decreased in some locations, including in the United States. Based on observational studies, factors such as healthy lifestyle behaviors and higher levels of education may be contributing to such a decline. But the cause and effect is uncertain, and such factors need to be tested in a clinical trial to prove whether they can prevent dementia.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003ca href=\"https://www.nap.edu/catalog/24782/preventing-cognitive-decline-and-dementia-a-way-forward\"\u003ereview of published research\u003c/a\u003e evaluated the evidence from clinical trials on behavior and lifestyle changes to prevent or delay Alzheimer’s or age-related cognitive decline. The review found “encouraging but inconclusive” evidence for three types of behavioral changes (called interventions): physical activity, blood pressure control, and cognitive training. The findings mean that interventions in these areas are promising enough that researchers should keep studying them to learn more. Researchers continue to explore these and other interventions to determine whether — and in what amounts or forms — they might prevent dementia.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWatch a video below that highlights conclusions and recommendations from the research review.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe allowfullscreen frameborder=\"0\" height=\"360\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/NcFdAVrYfns?rel=0\" width=\"640\"\u003e\u003c/iframe\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n"},{"__typename":"PageComponent","id":1542,"type":"alz_body_section","body":"\u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--full sidenav-anchor\" id=\"what-can-you-do\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e\n What Can You Do?\n\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAlthough there is no effective treatment or proven prevention for Alzheimer’s and related dementias, in general, leading a healthy lifestyle may help address risk factors that have been associated with these diseases.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eControl high blood pressure.\u003c/strong\u003e High blood pressure, or hypertension, has harmful effects on the heart, blood vessels, and brain, and increases the risk of stroke and \u003ca href=\"/alzheimers-dementias/vascular-dementia\"\u003evascular dementia\u003c/a\u003e. Treating high blood pressure with medication and healthy lifestyle changes, such as exercising and quitting smoking, may help reduce the risk of dementia.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eManage blood sugar.\u003c/strong\u003e Higher than normal levels of blood sugar, or glucose, can lead to diabetes and may increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, cognitive impairment, and dementia. Making healthy food choices, getting regular exercise, stopping smoking, and checking glucose levels can help manage blood sugar.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaintain a healthy weight.\u003c/strong\u003e Being overweight or obese increases the risk for related health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Being active and choosing healthy foods can help maintain a healthy weight.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEat a healthy diet.\u003c/strong\u003e Aim for a mix of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and seafood, unsaturated fats such as olive oil, low-fat or nonfat dairy products, and limit\u0026nbsp;other fats and sugars.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKeep physically active.\u003c/strong\u003e Physical activity has many health benefits, such as helping to prevent being overweight and having obesity, heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStay mentally active.\u003c/strong\u003e Lots of activities can help keep your mind active, including reading, playing board games, crafting or taking up a new hobby, learning a new skill, working or volunteering, and socializing.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStay connected with family and friends.\u003c/strong\u003e Connecting with people and engaging in social activities can prevent social isolation and loneliness, which are linked to higher risks for cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTreat hearing problems.\u003c/strong\u003e Hearing loss may affect cognition and dementia risk in older adults and can make it more difficult to interact with others. Protect your ears from loud sounds to help prevent hearing loss and use hearing aids if needed.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTake care of your mental and physical health.\u003c/strong\u003e This includes getting your recommended health screenings, managing chronic health issues such as depression or high cholesterol, and regularly checking in with your health care provider.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSleep well.\u003c/strong\u003e Sleeping well is important for both your mind and body. Try to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Talk with your doctor if you are not getting enough sleep, sleeping poorly, or think you may have a sleep disorder.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrevent head injury.\u003c/strong\u003e Take steps to prevent falls and head injury, such as fall-proofing your home and wearing shoes with nonskid soles that fully support your feet. Consider participating in fall prevention programs online or in your area. Also, wear seatbelts and helmets to help protect you from concussions and other brain injuries.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrink less alcohol.\u003c/strong\u003e Drinking too much alcohol can lead to falls and worsen health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, memory loss, and mood disorders. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), part of the National Institutes of Health, recommends that men should not have more than two drinks a day and women only one. Learn more at \u003ca href=\"https://www.rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih.gov/\"\u003eNIAAA’s Rethinking Drinking website\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/li\u003e\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStop tobacco use.\u003c/strong\u003e At any age, stopping smoking can improve your health and lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and lung disease.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eResearchers cannot say for certain whether making the above lifestyle changes will protect against dementia, but these changes are good for your health and are all part of making healthy choices as you age.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n"},{"__typename":"PageComponent","id":1653,"type":"alz_callout","body":"\u003cdiv class=\"block_callout clearfix paragraph paragraph--type--alz-callout paragraph--view-mode--full sidenav-anchor\" id=\"watch-out-for-false-alzheimer’s-cures\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-small call-out-small--alt\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-heading\"\u003e\n \n\n \u003ch2\u003e\n Watch Out for False Alzheimer’s Cures\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-description\"\u003e\n \n \u003cp\u003eAlthough you might see commercials or online advertisements for products promising to improve brain health and prevent dementia, be cautious about such products. There currently is no product that will effectively prevent or treat Alzheimer’s or related dementias. Check with your doctor before trying any new medication or supplement.\u003c/p\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n"},{"__typename":"PageComponent","id":1543,"type":"alz_body_section","body":"\u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--alz-body-section paragraph--view-mode--full sidenav-anchor\" id=\"what’s-next-with-dementia-prevention-research\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e\n What’s Next With Dementia Prevention Research?\n\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMore research is needed to find ways to help prevent Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Future research may determine that specific interventions are needed to prevent or delay the disease in some people, but others may need a combination of treatments based on their individual risk factors. Understanding risk factors and choices you can make now is important for both your present and future health. In addition to this website, consider the resources listed below to learn more.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYou can also help researchers learn more about preventing dementia by participating in clinical trials and studies. Search the \u003ca href=\"/clinical-trials/find-clinical-trials\"\u003eAlzheimers.gov Clinical Trials Finder\u003c/a\u003e to find studies that need volunteers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n"},{"__typename":"PageComponent","id":1654,"type":"alz_callout","body":"\u003cdiv class=\"block_callout clearfix paragraph paragraph--type--alz-callout paragraph--view-mode--full sidenav-anchor\" id=\"research-on-alzheimer’s-disease-and-related-dementias\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-small\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"row \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"col-12 col-tablet-5 col-desktop-4\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-media\"\u003e\n \u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" src=\"/sites/default/files/2024-04/research-dementias-callout.jpg\" alt=\"scientists in a research lab\" typeof=\"foaf:Image\" /\u003e\n\n\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"col-12 col-tablet-7 col-desktop-8\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-heading\"\u003e\n \u003ca name=\"1654\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\n \n\n \u003ch2\u003e\n Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-description\"\u003e\n \n \u003cp\u003eThe federal government and others are exploring diverse research areas to improve quality of life for people with dementia and to prevent and treat these diseases.\u003c/p\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n \n\n \u003cdiv class=\"call-out-cta\"\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"text-button block-card--bold\" href=\"/taking-action/research-activities\"\u003eLearn more about research activities.\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n"},{"__typename":"PageComponent","id":4512,"type":"alz_mailchimp_signup","body":"\n\u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--alz-mailchimp-signup paragraph--view-mode--full sidenav-anchor\" id=\"sign-up-for-weekly-tips-from-alzheimersgov\"\u003e\n \u003cmailchimpsubscriber topic=\"c1f750c14e\" listId=\"ffe42fdac3\" tag=\"Alzheimers.gov site\"\u003e\n \u003cfieldset\u003e\n \u003clegend class=\"subscribe-legend\"\u003e\n Sign up for weekly tips from Alzheimers.gov\n \u003c/legend\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"subscribe-description\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/fieldset\u003e\n \u003c/mailchimpsubscriber\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n"},{"__typename":"PageComponent","id":1514,"type":"add_resources","body":"\u003cdiv class=\"paragraph paragraph--type--add-resources paragraph--view-mode--full media-list sidenav-anchor\" id=\"find-more-resources-on-dementia-risk-and-brain-health\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-list-container\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e\n Find More Resources on Dementia Risk and Brain Health\n\n \u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eExplore the resources on this website and linked below to find more information from federal government agencies.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \n\n\u003cdiv class=\"media-list-item \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item row v-align-middle\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8\"\u003e\n \u003cspan class=\"meta-data text-x-small\"\u003e\n \u003cspan\u003e National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health\n\u003c/span\u003e\n \u003c/span\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"media-item-title\" href=\"https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/assessing-risk-alzheimers-disease\"\u003eAssessing Risk for Alzheimer\u0026#039;s Disease\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003cdiv\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLearn about genetic and other risk factors for early- and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease.\u0026nbsp;Also available in Spanish.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \n\n\u003cdiv class=\"media-list-item \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item row v-align-middle\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8\"\u003e\n \u003cspan class=\"meta-data text-x-small\"\u003e\n \u003cspan\u003e National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health\n\u003c/span\u003e\n \u003c/span\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"media-item-title\" href=\"https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/preventing-alzheimers-disease-what-do-we-know\"\u003ePreventing Alzheimer\u0026#039;s Disease: What Do We Know?\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003cdiv\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLearn more about the state of Alzheimer’s prevention research, research targets, and what you can do.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \n\n\u003cdiv class=\"media-list-item \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item row v-align-middle\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8\"\u003e\n \u003cspan class=\"meta-data text-x-small\"\u003e\n \u003cspan\u003e National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institutes of Health\n\u003c/span\u003e\n \u003c/span\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"media-item-title\" href=\"https://order.nia.nih.gov/publication/reducing-your-risk-of-dementia\"\u003eReducing Your Risk of Dementia\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003cdiv\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eView, download, or order a free publication about steps you can take to lead a healthy lifestyle that may help lower your risk of dementia.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \n\n\u003cdiv class=\"media-list-item \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item row v-align-middle\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8\"\u003e\n \u003cspan class=\"meta-data text-x-small\"\u003e\n \u003cspan\u003e Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)\n\u003c/span\u003e\n \u003c/span\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"media-item-title\" href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/aging/healthybrain/index.htm\"\u003eHealthy Brain Initiative\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003cdiv\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFind information on steps to promote brain health, address cognitive impairment, and address the needs of caregivers.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n \n\n\u003cdiv class=\"media-list-item \"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item row v-align-middle\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"media-item-content col-12 col-tablet-8\"\u003e\n \u003cspan class=\"meta-data text-x-small\"\u003e\n \u003cspan\u003e National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health\n\u003c/span\u003e\n \u003c/span\u003e\n \u003ca class=\"media-item-title\" href=\"https://www.mindyourrisks.nih.gov/\"\u003eMind Your Risks\u003c/a\u003e\n \u003cdiv\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKnow the risks of high blood pressure and take steps to manage your risk.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\n\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n"}],"heroImage":{"__typename":"Image","height":null,"width":null,"url":"https://www.nia.nih.gov/sites/default/files/styles/hero_image_900x400/public/2022-12/reduce-your-risk-image.jpg?itok=9CfhJmHm","title":null,"alt":"Woman exercising with weights to reduce her risk for 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