Blaring signs at age 60 you’ll likely develop dementia at 80: research

If you have reached your maximum number of articles on Fox News and want to continue reading valuable content about dementia and cognitive impairment, all you need to do is log in or create a free account. By entering your email and agreeing to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, you can access the insightful information provided in the recent study by the RAND Corporation in California.

The study identified several key predictors that could indicate the development of dementia up to 20 years before symptoms appear. Researchers evaluated 181 potential risk factors, including demographics, lifestyle choices, health history, and more. Some of the strongest predictors at age 60 that could lead to cognitive impairment and dementia by age 80 include poor physical health, a history of stroke, genetics, being born in the Southern United States, and not having private health insurance.

Surprisingly, factors such as never drinking alcohol, never exercising, having a high body mass index, and low engagement in hobbies were also identified as significant predictors. The study revealed that behavioral factors like exercise and cognitive activities were more important predictors of dementia than genetic factors.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, study co-author Peter Hudomiet shared some of the unexpected findings from the research. He highlighted the importance of regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight, and engaging in challenging cognitive activities to reduce the risk of dementia.

According to gerontologist Dr. Macie P. Smith, the research findings underscore the importance of taking proactive steps to prevent dementia. She emphasized that reducing dementia risk goes beyond medication and requires lifestyle changes such as proper nutrition and regular exercise.

Overall, understanding the early predictors of dementia and making healthy lifestyle choices can significantly impact cognitive health in the long term. By taking control of your health now, you can shape your future and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. So, log in or create a free account on Fox News to access more valuable health content and stay informed about the latest research on dementia prevention.