Dementia is the name given to a group of symptoms that are linked to ongoing brain function decline, according to the NHS.
Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia, and its symptoms can include being repetitive, forgetting the name son places and objects, and finding it harder to make decisions.
As the condition progresses, signs of the dementia include difficulty eating, loss of speech, and considerable weight loss.
But, you could lower your risk of dementia by making small lifestyle changes right now.
“If you’re becoming increasingly forgetful, particularly if you’re over the age of 65, it may be a good idea to talk to your GP about the early signs of dementia,” said the NHS.
“Although there is no cure for dementia at present, if it’s diagnosed in the early stages, there are ways you can slow it down and maintain mental function.
“However, there’s good evidence that a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk of developing dementia when you’re older.”
Leading a healthy lifestyle could also slash your risk of developing strokes and heart attacks, which are risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.
Regular exercise is the best way to prevent dementia, according to Harvard Medical School.
Half an hour of exercise three to four days a week could lower your risk of the condition.
Following a Mediterranean diet could also slow down Alzheimer’s disease’s progression, it said.
The diet includes fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, nuts and fish.
Getting enough sleep and always striving to learn new things are also recommended.
Cognitively-stimulating activities may be helping in preventing Alzheimer’s disease.
You could also lower your risk of dementia in later life by putting back on the amount of alcohol you consume.
Drinking wine – but just a little – may help to ward off the condition.