Prevention
WHO Guidelines
WHO guidelines for the prevention of dementia provide evidence-based recommendations to reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive impairment. They include the following main points:
Physical activity: Regular physical exercise, such as walking, swimming or dancing, is recommended as it has been shown to promote brain health.
Healthy diet: A balanced diet, particularly the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and healthy fats, can reduce the risk of dementia.
Avoiding tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption: Not smoking and moderate alcohol consumption are crucial to maintaining cognitive health.
Cognitive stimulation: Activities that challenge the brain, such as reading, doing puzzles or learning new skills, can reduce the risk of dementia.
Social interaction: Social activities and regular contact with other people promote mental health and reduce the risk of dementia.
Managing health risks: Controlling blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol, as well as managing obesity and depression, can help prevent dementia.
Avoiding head injuries: Protecting the head, especially during sports or at work, to avoid trauma and injuries that could increase the risk of dementia.
These measures provide a comprehensive strategy to prevent or delay the development of dementia through lifestyle changes and risk management.
(vgl. https://www.who.int/health-topics/dementia#tab=tab_1)