Scientists identify 15 early signs of dementia under the age of 65

Dementia is a brain disorder that impairs one’s ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interfere with everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, which is highly prevalent in India.

Published in JAMA Neurology, researchers from the University of Exeter and Maastricht University analysed data from over 3,50,000 participants under 65 in the UK.

They identified 15 key factors influencing the condition. While among them genetics are beyond control, others are modifiable.

The 15 risk factors of early or young onset dementia include:

1. Social isolation
2. Lower formal education
3. Lower socioeconomic status
4. Carrying two copies of the APOE gene (linked to Alzheimer’s risk)
5. Vitamin D deficiency
6. Hearing impairment
7. Alcohol use disorder
8. Abstaining from alcohol
9. Depression
10. High C-reactive protein levels
11. Lower handgrip strength (physical frailty)
12. Orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure)
13. Stroke
14. Diabetes
15. Heart disease

This study is significant as it examines young-onset dementia risk factors in a new light.

How to mitigate risks related to demenia?

Physical Exercise: Engaging in daily physical activity has broad benefits, including improved neurocognitive function, neurogenesis, vasculogenesis, and mood enhancement.

Healthy Diet: Adopting a Mediterranean-based diet, rich in green leafy vegetables, olive oil, salmon, and blueberries, can provide neuroprotective factors.

Cognitive, Mood, and Social Stimulation: To keep the mind sharp, engage in activities like learning a new language, attending seminars, listening to music, or dancing. Stress reduction practices like mindfulness and yoga contribute to mood stimulation. Face-to-face interactions are crucial for social stimulation, promoting quality connections.

While some risk factors are uncontrollable, these lifestyle habits offer a solid starting point for reducing the risk of young-onset dementia.