A recent research report in JAMA
Neurology, conducted by the University of Exeter and Maastricht University, has
unveiled certain factors associated with early onset dementia, and some of them
might be unexpected.
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| Researchers have identified some key risk factors for the early development of dementia |
The study examined the behaviors of
more than 350,000 participants under the age of 65 in the United Kingdom to
assess the occurrence of dementia in younger individuals, specifically before
reaching the age of 65. The findings revealed 15 common issues contributing to
the early onset of this condition. While some factors are related to genetics
and uncontrollable elements, many others are modifiable.
Experts find significance in this study as it approaches risk factors for young-onset dementia in a manner previously applied mainly to late-onset dementias. Dr. Kevin Bickart, an assistant professor in neurology at the University of California Los Angeles Health’s David Geffen School of Medicine, notes that the study includes a large sample followed from a healthy baseline to a dementia diagnosis with extensive data collection.
Key Points to Consider:
In examining 39 potential risk
factors for young-onset dementia, a comprehensive study identified 15 factors
that significantly influence the development of dementia before the age of 65.
These factors include:
- Social isolation
- Lower formal education
- Lower socioeconomic status
- Carrying two copies of the APOE gene (a marker
influencing Alzheimer's risk)
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Hearing impairment
- Alcohol use disorder
- Abstinence from alcohol use
- Depression
- High C-reactive protein levels
- Lower handgrip strength (indicative of physical
frailty)
- Orthostatic hypotension (a form of low blood
pressure)
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
While certain risks, such as genetic predisposition and socioeconomic status, may be beyond an individual's control, lifestyle modifications can potentially manage others.
Reducing the Risk of Early-Onset Dementia:
The study's findings align with
longstanding advice from medical experts, emphasizing certain measures that
individuals can adopt to lower their risk of young-onset dementia.
Dr. Arman Fesharaki-Zadeh, an
assistant professor of psychiatry and neurology at the Yale School of Medicine,
recommends three lifestyle measures to mitigate the risk of early-onset
dementia, beginning with regular physical exercise. Fesharaki-Zadeh highlights
the broad benefits of an active daily exercise routine, such as improved neurocognitive
function, increased neurogenesis (formation of new neurons and synapses),
vasculogenesis (generation of new blood vessels), and inherent mood benefits.
Another crucial aspect is focusing on a diet rich in nourishing foods. Fesharaki-Zadeh advocates for a Mediterranean-based diet, emphasizing its well-documented advantages. This dietary approach, encompassing food groups like green leafy vegetables, olive oil, salmon, and blueberries, provides essential vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants—elements known for their neuroprotective properties.
Fesharaki-Zadeh advises
incorporating cognitive, mood, and social stimulation to maintain mental
acuity.
For cognitive stimulation,
activities like learning a new language, attending seminars, listening to
music, or dancing are recommended. Essentially, any engagement that challenges
the mind contributes to its overall health. Mood stimulation involves stress
reduction practices, with mindfulness and yoga being specifically suggested by
Fesharaki-Zadeh.
In terms of social stimulation, the approach is straightforward: prioritize face-to-face connections and engage in meaningful conversations as much as possible. Fesharaki-Zadeh emphasizes the increasing importance of quality social connections, especially in the post-pandemic era.
While these habits may not address
all dementia risk factors, they serve as a robust starting point for
maintaining cognitive health.
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