No matter what term is used to describe it, the feelings associated with losing the ability to think for yourself is horrifying and frightening.
If you've had relatives deal with this problem, it is compounded because you know the possibility exists that you will face it down the road.
The good news is that there are things that can be done.
It may not be easy and you may not enjoy some of it, but it is worth it to protect your mental future.
Back to School: They're not exactly sure *why* this helps, but studies show that the more education you have, the less likely you are to develop dementia.
Even one extra year can make a difference, but the more education you have the less likely it is to strike.
The theory being postulated now is that this gives us coping mechanisms when the condition starts, allowing us to mentally work around the issues they bring up.
Exercise: No matter what the problem, exercise seems to be a part of the solution.
Moderate to intense exercise is best, but even mild routines offer benefits.
In some studies, the numbers improved by forty percent.
The idea is that this improves blood flow to the brain, bringing in more oxygen.
This can be useful even if there are already some signs of the condition.
Fish: Yes, the capsules may help but actually eating the fish is a lot better.
Two to three servings a week are recommended.
Why it helps has not yet been established, but one thing has been: It isn't caused by simply improving the quality of the diet.
It's something in the fish itself.
Go Places and Meet People: Social interaction and mental stimulation from being out and about are good for our brains.
Again, scientists aren't positive as to why, just that there is a connection.
Puzzles: If you enjoy crossword puzzles, cryptograms and other mentally challenging entertainment, you may have a lower risk for this medical condition.
There are also several puzzle books made for people already suffering from the problem, in order to prevent further decline.
Retirement? Maybe Not..
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: Another study shows that those who retire early were far more likely to develop dementia.
The longer you stay employed, the better your odds of beating this problem.
Weight Control: It's almost a given; anytime exercise is on the list of preventative steps, something about weight or diet is going to be on it as well.
Your body mass index (BMI) can be an indicator of your risk for future problems.
It may be genetic, or it could be the fat that surrounds our organs when we're overweight.
There is, for the most part, something important in this list.
We have to use our brains; think, plan, act and feel if we want to avoid dementia.
It is true, if we don't use it, we're likely to lose it.