Researchers at Maastricht University in the Netherlands have identified modifiable factors, like hearing health and vitamin levels, that may prevent young-onset cognitive decline and dementia.
- Your 30s and 40s present a window to reduce future risk.
Analyzing over 350,000 adults from age 40, the Dutch scientists uncovered startling overlaps between risks for late-life and young-onset dementia.
- These include depression, isolation, and diabetes.
Young-onset dementia can begin years before symptoms appear, even as early as age 30. Globally, nearly 4 million people ages 30-64 are estimated to be living with it.
Assumptions, assumptions: Neurodegenerative risk factors can impact cognition earlier than assumed. This study shows that factors harming cognition after age 65 can take effect much earlier in life, contradicting the assumption that midlife individuals are not susceptible.
Risk factors like age, sex, and genetics cannot be changed. However, other modifiable risk factors can be, including
- Smoking
- Prediabetes/diabetes
- Hearing loss
- Obesity
- Social isolation
- High blood pressure
The researchers found the risk factors listed above also contribute to young-onset dementia, not just genetics, as previously thought.
Why it matters
This study challenges the notion that genetics entirely dictate dementia susceptibility.
- Uncomplicated lifestyle changes may help reduce the risk of young-onset dementia.
The takeaway
You can interrupt the disease progression through everyday measures right now. Recommended preventive actions include—
- Not smoking
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Getting your hearing screened annually so hearing loss can be treated as early as possible
- Monitoring blood pressure and vitamin D level
Schedule a free hearing screening
Hearing loss is gradual and not benign. Untreated, it increases your risk of falling, cognitive decline, and dementia.
Check your hearing health with a free, 15-minute hearing screening by an audiologist.
Call 708-599-9500 to schedule yours.
► For facts about hearing loss and hearing aid options, download The Hearing Loss Guide.
Don't let untreated hearing loss threaten your health and happiness.
