Scientists have reported a significant prevalence of dementia, or senile dementia. It is associated with the general aging of the world's population. At the moment, there are already twice as many people with this diagnosis than in 1990, and by 2030 there will be 82 million of them. Dementia is not cured, but according to scientists, in about 40% of cases it can be prevented, RIA Novosti reports.
Representatives from University College London in the course of the study identified 12 factors that increase the risk of developing dementia. Lack of education came first. The list also includes hearing loss, head injuries, hypertension, excess weight and alcoholism. In people over 65, dementia can occur due to bad habits (smoking), depression and loneliness, low physical activity, and even air pollution. Diabetes has been identified as another risk factor. Scientists noted that when changing lifestyle, there is a possibility of avoiding the disease, even if there is a genetic predisposition to it.
American experts called good sleep a way to escape from dementia. Observations have shown that older people who fall asleep for a long time and sleep less than five hours a night have poor prognosis.
In addition, proper diet is important to keep your brain healthy. Years of research have shown that the healthiest option is Mediterranean, with a predominance of fish, whole grains and olive oil, and little red meat.
Scientists noted that special substances - anthocyanins (plant flavonoids), which are found in grains, can have a beneficial effect. Representatives of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the SB RAS have grown wheat with an increased content of anthocyanins and introduced it into the diet of laboratory mice suffering from Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. After five months, the rodents had improved spatial memory, neurons began to regenerate, and regression in learning was stopped.
Earlier, Finnish scientists advised those who are afraid of developing dementia to sing in chorus. Singing enthusiasts demonstrated better cognitive abilities than those who did not practice in the choir.