Here are three ways families can reduce their risk of dementia. It is about raising awareness and providing sensory support to promote dementia health.
Dementia causes a lot of worry and anxiety, especially for those of us who have loved ones who may experience dementia. We worry emotionally and mentally about losing family members. General advice to prevent dementia usually includes eating better, exercising more, and participating in brain games. These tips are helpful, but they only solve part of the problem. Protecting our cognitive health requires everyone and relies on strong family relationships, support, and each other’s presence. Reducing the risk of dementia cannot be done in isolation; it must be a community effort.
How can we support people with dementia?
How can families support the cognitive health of their loved ones? Dementia expert and clinical psychologist Neha Sinha shares three important ways to go beyond typical lifestyle advice and make real changes.
1. Families as health advocates
Vascular health in midlife is a strong predictor of dementia risk. “Poorly controlled blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol can lead to cognitive decline later in life,” Sinha told Healthshot. Also, certain long-term medications, especially anticholinergic drugs used for allergies and sleep problems, can have a negative effect on memory function.
Families can improve their health outcomes by becoming active health advocates. This means attending a doctor’s office, understanding diagnostic reports, and reviewing medications with your health care provider. Family involvement is key. Having a loved one accompany an elderly parent or grandparent for a checkup provides support and makes the visit to the doctor’s office less scary and more empowering.
Is it interference? No, it’s a talisman. “Your participation will help facilitate important health discussions, draw attention to potential cognitive issues, and ensure decisions are made in the best interest of the patient’s cognitive future,” says the dementia expert. When families work together, they can improve their loved one’s health and have a huge impact on their mental development.
2. Protect your senses and create safety
Biological factors don’t just cause dementia. Environmental factors also play a role. Untreated hearing and vision loss can accelerate cognitive decline. Think of an older person who was once active but can no longer hear conversations or move around the house with confidence. This can lead to isolation and withdrawal, affecting mood and limiting essential stimulation of the brain.
Family helps improve sensory health. You can encourage daily hearing aid use, buy glasses, and keep the environment well-lit. These actions can make a big difference. It is not only important to have the right equipment, but also to create a supportive living space. Eliminate fall hazards in your home, such as loose rugs and untidy walkways. “Consider physical therapy to improve your balance and strength,” says Sinha. When older adults feel safe at home, their cognitive function may improve.
3. Promote social interaction
Brain games and puzzles can be helpful, but the best way to improve your thinking skills is through emotional and social interaction. “The brain functions better when we connect with others, face challenges, and find meaning,” says Sinha. Doing activities together, like learning to cook or taking an art class, stimulates the mind and strengthens relationships.
Think about what you can do to make your loved one think better. “Reading books together, volunteering in the community, or starting a creative project increases brain activity more than working alone,” says the clinical psychologist. Sharing experiences not only improves mental health, but also strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories.
Research from the Alzheimer’s Association shows that being social can reduce your risk of dementia by up to 70%. Therefore, prioritize these moments. Plan a family outing, game night, or volunteer day to strengthen your connections and help each other’s brain health.
Reducing the risk of dementia requires respecting people’s identities. When families act as advocates, supporters, and allies, they send strong messages of support, help people feel dignity and strength, and combat loneliness and cognitive decline.
