How to reduce your risk

ABOUT a third of cases of dementia are now thought to be influenced by factors that people are able to change.

The brain is made up of tiny blood vessels, so anything that affects the cardiovascular system could increase the risk of cognitive decline.

So poor diet, alcohol, smoking, high blood pressure and lack of exercise all increase dementia risk. But keeping the brain active can protect against the condition.

Research suggests doing puzzles helps, as does having a stimulating job or an active social life. These create ‘cognitive reserve’ – the ability some people have to maintain their memory and IQ despite the impact of ageing.

Scientists describe this important faculty as a ‘super power’ against dementia.