Keeping Your Brain Strong: What Everyone Should Know About Dementia Prevention

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Christina Wong, board-certified Clinical Neuropsychologist, to unpack what dementia really means, how it shows up, and what steps we can all take to keep our brains strong and healthy.Dr. Wong explains the difference between normal aging and dementia, early warning signs families should look out for, and the powerful role of lifestyle changes in protecting our brain health—at any age. From exercise and nutrition to sleep, social connection, and cognitive engagement, she shares practical, science-backed steps anyone can start today.We also explore how social determinants of health—like access to education, healthcare, and exposure to discrimination—shape risk for dementia, and why tackling these inequities is key to prevention.Resources mentioned:Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/ UCLA Dementia Caregiver Videos: https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/geriatrics/dementia/caregiver-education/caregiver-training-videos SilverSneakers: https://tools.silversneakers.com/Eligibility/HealthPlansDementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(24)01296-0/abstractOrnish Lifestyle Medicine: https://lifestylemedicine.org/ornish-research/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22593790493&gbraid=0AAAAACnVqGh3Z9RSrgWj2w4TboRwD8_4s&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_rPGBhCbARIsABjq9cepiV2H8UH5rQQG-bfSHqbS3IBBsGtKkza4DfP6SVhf7XJ_WARW4jkaAqHPEALw_wcBKeep Your Wits About You: The Science of Brain Maintenance as You Age by Vonetta M. Dotson: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Keep-Your-Wits-About-You/dp/1433832895Connect with Dr. Wong: @christinagwong.bsky.socialTo support our work, find us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or visit our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Music Credit: Nathan Byrne with Reel Byrne Media. Note: The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical/therapeutic advice. Such information is not intended nor otherwise implied to be mental health advice or a substitute for mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a mental health or medical professional. If you become distressed and need support, call 988 to access 24/7 mental health support, call 911, or visit your nearest emergency room.