Dementia: Not a Normal Part of Ageing

Dementia: Not a Normal Part of Ageing

As we age, it's natural to experience some changes in our cognitive abilities. However, dementia is not a normal part of ageing. Dementia is a term used to describe a range of neurodegenerative diseases that affect memory, thinking, and behaviour. These diseases can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life, as well as their ability to live independently.

Here are some of the key facts about dementia:

• Dementia is not a normal part of ageing: While some cognitive decline is expected as we age, dementia is a specific set of conditions that go beyond normal ageing changes.
• There are many types of dementia: Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, but there are many other types as well, including vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia.
• Dementia is a growing problem: As the population ages, the number of people with dementia is expected to increase. In Australia, it's estimated that around 472,000 people currently live with dementia, and this number is projected to reach 1.1 million by 2058.

Prevention is key when it comes to dementia. While there is no known cure for dementia, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition. Here are some strategies:

Brain Health:

• Stay mentally active: Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as reading, puzzles, and learning new skills.
• Exercise regularly: Exercise can help to improve blood flow to the brain, as well as reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, can help to support brain health.

Cognitive Decline:

• Manage chronic conditions: Chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can increase the risk of cognitive decline. Managing these conditions is important for brain health.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking: Both alcohol and smoking can increase the risk of cognitive decline, so it's important to avoid these substances.

Memory Loss:

• Get enough sleep: Sleep is important for memory consolidation and cognitive function.
• Reduce stress: Chronic stress can have a negative impact on memory and cognitive function, so finding healthy ways to manage stress is important.

Our Naturopath's favourite products for brain health:

• Bioclinic Naturals Leaky Brain Chocolate 210g: reduces oxidative damage and inflammation in the brain, and improves brain and nervous system function
• Melrose MCT Oil Brain Power 500ml: fuel source for mental and physical performance, and supports brain health
• BioCeuticals UltraClean® DHA Omega 60 Capsules: DHA is concentrated in the brain, and maintains brain health and function, while improving cognitive function. 

Dementia is not a normal part of ageing. While there is no cure for dementia, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition. By focusing on brain health, cognitive decline, and memory loss, you can help to maintain your cognitive function and reduce your risk of dementia.