Some factors increase the chances of dementia:

• Family history: If a close relative like a parent or sibling had dementia, your risk is higher.
• Age: People over 65 years are more at risk.
• Health conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity can harm the brain.
• Smoking and alcohol: These habits can damage the brain.
• Inactivity and loneliness: Lack of exercise or social connection may increase risk.
• Depression: This condition can both increase risk and be a symptom of dementia.

Dementia worsens over time, affecting memory, thinking, and behavior. It also places a heavy burden on families and caregivers. Types of dementia include Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. All forms affect memory, reasoning, and coordination but in slightly different ways.

1. Memory loss: Forgetting names or items.
2. Confusion: Getting lost or forgetting the time.
3. Communication issues: Difficulty finding words or keeping up with conversations.
4. Routine tasks: Trouble doing familiar activities.
5. Mood changes: Irritability or depression.
6. Spatial awareness issues: Misjudging distances.

1. Alzheimer’s Disease: Causes memory loss and confusion due to brain cell damage.
2. Vascular Dementia: Linked to strokes or poor blood flow to the brain, leading to poor judgment and concentration.
3. Lewy Body Dementia: Causes hallucinations and movement problems.
4. Frontotemporal Dementia: Affects behavior and speech, usually in people between 40 and 60.

Dementia diagnosis involves talking to your medical doctor who also examines you, does tests like brain scans and cognitive assessments. There is no cure, but treatment includes medications to slow progression, therapies to improve memory and lifestyle changes such as good nutrition, exercise and social activities. Support for caregivers is also crucial.

To reduce the risk of dementia, adopting a healthy lifestyle and managing medical conditions is crucial. Key prevention strategies include:

1. Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains while limiting processed foods and alcohol.
2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise and staying active help maintain brain and overall health.
3. Manage Medical Conditions: Control high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol to prevent brain damage.
4. Mental and Social Engagement: Stay mentally active through reading and puzzles. Maintain social connections to avoid isolation.
5. Avoid Smoking and Drugs: Quit smoking and avoid recreational drugs to protect brain health.
6. Mental Health: Manage stress and depression, and practice relaxation techniques.
7. Prevent Head Injuries: Wear helmets and take precautions to avoid head trauma.

These steps help protect brain health and lower the risk of dementia.