Could Dementia Be on The Decline?

Reports try to predict the number of seniors who will develop dementia in the coming years. However, they often overestimate this number, as healthy behaviors and access to better health care are having a real impact. 

The likelihood of developing Alzheimer's and having a stroke, which are the most common conditions that lead to loss of cognitive function, is declining!

Impressive findings

Earlier this year, a group of researchers examined trends in dementia from the last four decades, and the findings were quite remarkable. 

In 1984, 30% of the U.S. population between the ages of 85 and 89 were living with dementia, but now it is down to 10%. Similarly, for seniors aged 80 to 84, the percentage decreased from 17% to 7%. 

These are extraordinary findings, and they are consistent with a 2020 review of the prevalence of dementia. A team of researchers led by the Harvard School of Public Health found that the chance of developing dementia in North America and Europe has declined by 13% per decade over the past 25 years. 

The 'why' 

This is wonderful news, but it begs a question: Why is this happening? Luckily, we have some answers.

We've learned a great deal from years of intensive study focused on how to prevent loss of cognitive function. Studies estimate that the risk of developing dementia can be cut in half by addressing modifiable risk factors, including hypertension, high cholesterol, hearing loss, smoking, obesity, depression, physical inactivity, diabetes, social isolation, excessive alcohol intake, traumatic brain injury, and visual loss. 

Many of these risk factors for dementia are also risk factors for cardiovascular disease, which makes sense, since we know that what is good for your cardiovascular health is also good for your brain health. 

This helps explain why the rates of dementia are declining. More and more seniors are practicing healthy behaviors, like exercising, eating well, and taking cholesterol medication, to prevent cardiovascular disease. By doing so, they are also helping prevent the onset of dementia. 

Healthy habits

The power of these healthy habits is further illustrated by a recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association. It demonstrated that, in a group of at-risk seniors aged 60 to 79, a structured program of increased physical and cognitive activity, healthy diet, social engagement, and heart-health monitoring resulted in improved cognition in just two years' time. 

The control group, who received education on a healthy lifestyle and developed their own approaches, also showed improved cognitive function, but the structured program participants did significantly better. Nothing like having a regimen and a coach to keep you on track!

Scientific evidence continues to mount that we can reduce our risk of losing cognitive function. Yes, we can help maintain our independence--our most cherished form of freedom--by taking good care of ourselves. While it takes discipline and commitment, sticking to a healthy lifestyle is the best investment in your overall well-being.

Request a brochure to learn more about how Erickson Senior Living communities offer expert health care to support your physical and mental well-being.