Alzheimer's Risk Factors Most People Don't Know

Do you know if you are already experiencing signs of Alzheimer's Disease?

Statistics reveal that 20% of people over 65, and half of people over 85, are already afflicted with Alzheimer's without knowing it? What are the chances of a person getting it?


Usually, we know that advanced age, and having the ApoE4 gene [which raises the genetic risks], are big risk factors in contracting the disease. And low scores in test of mental skills are also indicative of cognitive decline.

But there are other risk factors for cognitive impairment most people don't know, and which they should be aware of in order to take positive steps to minimize mental decline;

• Complete abstinence from alcohol may actually promote dementia. According to a study presented at the Alzheimer's Association 2009 International Conference, having one to two alcoholic drinks a day may help prevent dementia in elderly persons. Note: Excessive consumption, however, may have the opposite effect and promote dementia.
• Slowness of mind or movement. In a 6 year study, approximately 50% of cases of dementia that developed in elderly people, was indicative of this factor. 
• Being underweight is another indication.
• A history of heart bypass surgery also puts you at risk of dementia.
• According to a study published in the journal of Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, having even borderline high cholesterol in midlife increases the risk of Alzheimer's 30 years later in life.[I strongly suggest you also read Low Cholesterol Level - A Danger Sign?] Different medical groups have varying opinions on what cholesterol level one should have. I would go with those who say that cholesterol is not bad because this has been proven by countless studies already.
• Smoking, passive lifestyle, and deficiency in fruits and vegetables in the diet have also been linked to mental impairment.

The good news for you is that you can take the steps to minimize mental decline since you now know the risk factors;

• Monitor your weight regularly to avoid being underweight and to maintain your ideal body weight.
• Keep your cholesterol level within healthy range.
• Keep smoking out of your life
• Exercise regularly
• Keep a healthy diet which includes fruits and veggies