As the global population ages, the prevalence of dementia is on the rise. Estimates project that by 2050, 153 million individuals worldwide will be living with dementia. Given the profound impact of dementia on individuals and their families, researchers are actively exploring ways to lower the risk of cognitive decline. A recent study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s and Dementia delved into the potential advantages of integrating healthy lifestyle habits to reduce the risk of dementia.
Study Background on Dementia Risk
The study titled “Cardiometabolic diseases and early cognitive decline: Mitigated by integrated active lifestyle for brain health” investigated the link between cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) and cognitive decline. CMDs such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are known risk factors for dementia. The study examined whether specific lifestyle habits, including diet and exercise, could mitigate the heightened risk associated with CMDs.
Methodology and Findings
Utilizing data from the PINDEC Project, a longitudinal study focusing on neurodegenerative diseases among Chinese adults aged 60 and above, the researchers analyzed baseline and two-year follow-up data of 2,537 dementia-free elderly participants. Lifestyle factors like physical exercise, social interaction, leisure activities, sleep quality, smoking, and alcohol consumption were assessed to create an integrated lifestyle score. Participants were categorized into three groups based on their scores: inactive, intermediate, and active.
The results indicated that only a small percentage of participants followed all six healthy lifestyle habits, while a higher percentage embraced five to six components. The study revealed a direct relationship between CMDs and the risk of early cognitive decline. Participants with multiple CMDs had a higher risk compared to those with only one CMD.
Lifestyle Makes a Difference
A crucial finding was the positive impact of an active integrated lifestyle in reducing the risk of early cognitive decline. Individuals with an active lifestyle exhibited a significantly lower risk when compared to those with an inactive lifestyle and CMDs. Following more of the six lifestyle markers led to a further reduction in dementia risk.
The study underscores the significance of adopting and maintaining a range of healthy lifestyle habits to decrease cognitive decline. An integrated active lifestyle encompassing exercise, social interaction, leisure activities, quality sleep, and healthy habits can counteract the adverse effects of CMDs on cognitive health.
“A healthier lifestyle is associated with a significant reduced risk of early cognitive decline, but lifestyle changes can’t be piecemeal,” emphasized the study’s authors. “The most beneficial protective effect is seen when clustering multiple lifestyle factors together, showing just how powerful exercise, socializing, sleeping, and healthy consumption habits are in combination.”
The study’s outcomes have important implications for healthcare professionals and policymakers, highlighting the need to promote brain-health-related healthy lifestyles among older adults. Implementing interventions that encourage the adoption and continuation of these habits can help address the rising burden of dementia.
More Research Needed
While valuable, the study lacked detailed information on nutrition, which could also play a crucial role in dementia risk. Future research should delve into the interaction between lifestyle factors, including nutrition, to gain a comprehensive understanding of their combined effects on cognitive health.
The Bottom Line
The study underscores the benefits of combining healthy lifestyle habits to reduce the risk of dementia. Embracing an active, integrated lifestyle comprising positive health behaviors can help mitigate the heightened risk associated with cardiometabolic diseases. Prioritizing and promoting the adoption of these habits is crucial for preserving cognitive health and enhancing the quality of life for older adults.
By integrating regular physical activity, social engagement, leisure activities, quality sleep, and healthy habits into daily routines, individuals can take proactive steps to safeguard their brain health and reduce the likelihood of dementia in later years.
Sources
- “Cardiometabolic diseases and early cognitive decline: Mitigated by integrated active lifestyle for brain health.” Science Direct. Haowei Li, Shige Qi, Shengshu Wang, Shanshan Yang, Shaohua Liu, Shimin Chen, Xuehang Li, Rongrong Li, Junhan Yang, Huaihao Li, Yinghui Bao, Yueting Shi, Zhihui Wang, Miao Liu, and Yao He.
- “Dementia Risk Lowered by Six Habits, Study Suggests.” Newsweek. Pandora Dewan. January 23, 2024.
