Dementia: Can It Be Prevented?

Dementia is older Americans' most feared diagnosis, according to surveys. This is understandable given that, by 2050, such diseases are projected to rob nearly 14 million people — more than twice the current number — of their memories, personalities, ability to function. Is it just fate or can you do anything to prevent dementia? In this episode, we explore the risk factors for dementia, lifestyle strategies and interventions to keep your brain healthy and whether cognitive impairment is inevitable if you live long enough. Hosts: Zach Moore, Todd Ackerman (interviewer) Expert: Dr. Gustavo Román, Neurologist Notable topics covered: Alzheimer's and other types of dementia: The differences How much age related mental decline is to be expected? Blood flow: Its role in the development of dementia How much of dementia is determined by genetics When's a good age to implement prevention strategies? Should you get tested to see if you're at risk? The connection between hearing loss and dementia Can vitamins prevent or delay dementia symptoms? The best brain exercises aren't crosswords or word puzzles Research to develop statin-like drugs for the brainIf you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.