Good habits for a healthy brain

The benefits associated with healthy lifestyle habits are well documented. Avoiding bad habits will help reduce your risk of dementia in later years.

Smoking

Risks associated with smoking include vascular degeneration, stroke and heart disease – all of which have been associated with increased risk of dementia.

Alcohol

It is recommended that you drink moderately and have two alcohol-free days a week. Moderate alcohol use may be protective of cognitive decline, but there is insufficient evidence to promote alcohol consumption to non-drinkers.

Stress

Stress has been associated with an increased risk of dementia through the link between stress and depression and depression and dementia. Exercise, meditation, yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates or walking the dog are just some ways in which you can de-stress your life.

Get a good night’s sleep

Lack of sleep and sleep disturbance that can sometimes result from snoring has been associated with cognitive impairment. Further studies in this area are required, but people experiencing sleep disorders should seek medical advice.

Source: Alzheimer's Australia