Dementia – a syndrome associated with the ongoing decline of the brain and its abilities – usually occurs in those over the age of 65.
According to the NHS most types can’t be cured, but if detected early symptoms may be reduced.
These include memory loss, slowing thinking speed and problems with language.
As such, maintaining independence can prove difficult for sufferers.
However, there are a number of everyday activities shown by science to prevent or reduce symptoms.
Do a crossword
A University of Exeter study, presented this week to an international conference in London on Alzheimer’s, revealed that people who regularly do crosswords have brains that are ten years younger their actual age.
The research involved 17,000 people, with the study authors analysing their attention, short-term memory and speed of response to grammatical tests.
Take a trip to the sauna
A study by the University of Eastern Finland discovered that frequent sauna bathing could reduce the risk of dementia.
Indeed, men who did so up to seven times a week were 66 per cent less likely to be diagnosed with the condition than those who only did once per week.
Make time for exercise
University of Canberra researchers recently revealed that doing physical activity, such as running or tai chi, could boost brain power in those over 50.
They found that an exercise routine which included both aerobic and resistance-type training of at least 45 minutes, and of a moderate intensity, could be beneficial to cognitive function.
Get a good night’s sleep
Prioritising your sleep could reduce your risk of the brain condition.
A study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that people who slept poorly had a greater risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
It’s thought that disrupted sleep – or not enough of it – causes amyloid plaque build-up which can be detrimental to the brain condition and cognition.
Sing in the shower
Research by the University of Virginia revealed that singing improves the cognitive abilities of moderate to severe dementia sufferers.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America advises singing songs from a dementia-sufferer’s young adult years – 18 to 25 – which may help them recall some memories.
Go for a walk
A study by the University of British Columbia discovered that going for a one-hour walk three times a week was associated with a more efficient brain and better thinking skills.
However, if you don’t have time, another study published in PLOS One found that frequent, brisk walks slowed memory loss in people with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.
Try meditation
Research by the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center revealed that meditation can help preserve your mind and slow Alzheimer’s disease.
In the study, participants did yoga or meditation for a total of two hours per week.
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