The risk for Alzheimer's doubles every ten years after the age of 60. Knowing your risk can potentially help you prevent dementia.
Why it matters
Dementia risk comes from genes, health conditions, and lifestyle habits. While you can’t change genetics, many factors are treatable, and small changes can help lower your risk over time.
- Genetic risk doubles if a parent has dementia
- Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes lowers risk
- Certain medications increase risk
- Treating hearing loss lowers risk
“Hearing loss is the largest modifiable risk factor for developing dementia, exceeding that of smoking, high blood pressure, lack of exercise and social isolation.” —Jane Brody from The New York Times, December 30, 2019
Source: Nature
The modifiable risk factors
The Lancet Commission provides the most comprehensive synthesis of evidence about dementia risk factors. Convened by The Lancet in 2015 to evaluate published research, the group’s work is the primary reference on this today.
Updated in 2024, the commission has identified 14 modifiable risk factors for dementia as presented in the infographic below.
The group estimated that 45% of dementia cases could be prevented by addressing these 14 factors.
- Start reducing your risk is now, no matter your age.
- Identify the risk factors you can tackle today, then start today.
- Physical activity and a healthy diet are vital for reducing dementia risk.
Hearing loss matters, any amount
Hearing-loss research at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons reports that the largest decrease in cognitive ability occurred in those whose hearing was beginning to be impaired, just 10 dB off the perfect mark.
"Most people with hearing loss believe they can go about their lives just fine without treatment, and maybe some can. But hearing loss is not benign. It has been linked to social isolation, depression, cognitive decline, and dementia. Hearing loss should be treated. This study suggests the earlier, the better." —Justin Golub, MD, who led the study, reported in ScienceDaily
Lower your risk by preserving your hearing
Hearing loss doesn't mean losing your balance, social world, or increasing your risk of dementia. Our free 15-minute hearing screening will help you:
- Understand your current hearing health
- Prevent communication barriers
- Stay engaged with loved ones
- Maintain your quality of life
Schedule your free screening today and rediscover the sounds that matter most.
★ Call 708-599-9500 to schedule your free screening.
★ For facts about hearing loss and hearing aid options, grab your copy of The Hearing Loss Guide.
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