Nearly Half of Dementia Cases May Be Preventable, Study Finds 

These factors can damage blood vessels in the brain and accelerate changes associated with conditions like vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. 

Healthy Habits That May Reduce Risk 

Experts say that making healthier lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of dementia. Some recommended habits include: 

Eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats 

Staying physically active with regular exercise 

Keeping the brain engaged through mental activities 

Managing blood pressure and heart health 

Limiting processed foods and excessive sugar 

Certain “brain-healthy” foods such as leafy greens, berries, nuts, fish, beans, and olive oil may also support brain health. 

The Bottom Line 

While not all dementia cases can be prevented, experts believe that up to 45% of cases may be avoidable through healthier lifestyle choices. By focusing on physical health, proper nutrition, and mental activity, people may help protect their brain health as they age. 

For families and caregivers, understanding these risk factors is an important step toward promoting healthy aging and better quality of life. 

Some of the most common preventable risk factors include: