Health & Wellbeing
Q. My father suffered from dementia in later life and I worry this may happen to me, too. Is there anything I can do to reduce my risks?
I can fully understand why people worry about dementia, especially if one of their parents was diagnosed with the condition. Dementia can develop at any age and following
certain illnesses but there is no certainty who will be affected. You can see your GP about genetic tests to see if you are more at risk, but this is very much a personal choice.
There are things you can do to reduce risks. As with many other illnesses, keeping yourself in good health and making simple lifestyle changes can help reduce the chances of developing dementia.
At Anchor we advise people to eat well, drink alcohol moderately and try to reduce your stresses as much as you can. Exercise regularly, and smoking is a no-no.
What’s good for the body is generally good for the brain. Feeding it with the right nutrients and increasing oxygen and blood supply through a good workout is important, but so is exercising your brain.
Completing quizzes and crosswords or learning a foreign language are good for mental health, as is being socially connected.