Posted on Oct 26, 2022

Dementia risk factors

6 Possible Risk Factors for Dementia Which You Most Likely Don't Know About

According to Elder Law Answers, more than 55 million people around the world currently suffer from dementia. Although advanced age is still the main risk factor for developing dementia, recent studies have discovered other potential risk factors for dementia and cognitive decline that you may not know about. 

Having poor oral hygiene

Finnish researchers recently discovered that gum disease and tooth loss may increase your risk of cognitive decline and dementia. The study’s results show that for older adults who may already be experiencing some form of dementia, maintaining oral health may be very important.

Watching too much TV

Another recent study discovered that the type of activity you are doing while sitting down for long periods of time may be connected to your risk of developing dementia. One example of this is watching TV while being sedentary. This involves less muscle activity than using a computer or reading during leisure time.
 

Avoiding your household chores 

Research from the U.K. also demonstrates a tie between even light physical activity and a lower risk of dementia. Staying active – including everyday activities such as household chores, walking, or other forms of light exercise – is associated with a reduced risk of dementia.

Having frequent nightmares 

New research findings suggest that experiencing nightmares that cause stress once a week or more may be associated with an increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline in middle-aged and older adults. Researchers stated that screening individuals for the frequency of their bad dreams could mean diagnosing cases of dementia earlier. 

Being diagnosed with a certain form of glaucoma

According to recent findings, individuals with normal-tension glaucoma are roughly 52 percent more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, a type of dementia, than people without glaucoma. The researchers stress the need to screen patients with this type of glaucoma for Alzheimer’s disease.

Read the full article from Elder Law Answers here.

If your loved one is suffering from Dementia or Alzheimers and needs long-term care, read more HERE on how we can help.