Scientists identify 9 lifestyle factors to prevent dementia

According to a study published in the Lancet Medical Journal, almost 50 million people are suffering from dementia worldwide. 

The study produced by University College London in partnership Alzheimer organisations, states that 47 million people were living with dementia in 2015 with this figure expected to triple by 2050.

In 2015, the Health Service Executive (HSE) estimated that there were 50,000 people living with dementia in Ireland and an average of 11 people are diagnosed each day.

Dementia affects the areas of the brain controlling memory, behaviour and learning, impacting an individual's personal relationships as well as their health. 

The study also found that a third of elderly people die with dementia meaning that they are not in a position to make decisions for themselves at the end of their lives. 

The majority of those living with dementia are over the age of 65 but the disease can also affect younger people. According to the HSE, one in every ten people diagnosed in Ireland are under the age of 65.

Women are worst affected among the Irish population, with two-thirds of all cases being female

But now researchers believe that a series of nine lifestyle factors can reduce your likelihood of developing dementia. 

The researchers believe that if these nine steps were followed it is possible that up to a third of all cases of dementia could be prevented. 

1. Ensuring a high level of education during childhood to promote healthy cognitive function. 
2. Taking care of your hearing, especially in middle age is important with increased levels of dementia detected among those with even mild hearing difficulties.  
3. Prevention of high blood pressure.
4. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding obesity. 
5. The avoidance of smoking. 
6. Maintaining good mental health in order to avoid depression.
7. Exercising regularly. 
8. Interacting socially as it improves brain cognition. 
9. The avoidance of factors which could lead to diabetes. 

While the results have been welcomed by medics, researchers are keen to highlight that some factors are genetic so following certain guidelines will not reduce the risk for everyone.