There are around 50 million people worldwide currently living with dementia. It is predicted that by the year 2050, that number will be 152 million.
In Australia, dementia is the second leading cause of death.
Dementia is costing the global economy an estimated US$1 trillion annually.
Here in Australia, the estimated cost is approximately $15 billion and is projected to cost more than $36 billion by the year 2056.
What factors have contributed to the rise in number? First of all, life expectancy has increased and people are living longer than ever before. That together with improvements in healthcare and advancements in medicine.
There is currently NO CURE for dementia and no effective treatment exists to stop or even slow the progression of the disease. Additionally, researchers have not identified any cause/s.
So what is dementia? Dementia is a broad term used to describe a range of conditions with progressive neurodegenerative effects. This includes conditions such as Alzheimer's Disease. Dementias can be considered "age-related metabolic neurodegenerative and vascular diseases". This means that neurodegeneration and impaired cognitive function occur over the long term due to neurotoxicity as a result of metabolic dysfunction and systemic inflammation.
Engaging in healthy lifestyle habits such as eating a diet that includes fresh meats, vegetables and fruits and limiting processed foods as well as adopting a regular exercise regime, proper sleep hygiene and stress-reducing practices such as meditation can help mediate long-term neurotoxicity.
Exercise increases blood flow to all major organs including the brain, increasing mental performance. Resistance training and high-intensity interval training have been shown to increase mTOR signalling, leading to the prevention of neurodegeneration.
A diet high in nutrients, low in sugar and processed foods offers better metabolic support. Foods rich in brain-enhancing nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids contribute to healthy brain aging.
Good sleep hygiene helps the brain clear out the build-up of metabolic waste products via cerebral fluid. Poor sleep disturbs this process and leads to brain inflammation and increased beta-amyloid plaque buildup.
Reducing stress through a variety of interventions such as breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, mindfulness etc. can reduce the risk of systemic inflammation.
Creating connections within society has been shown to improve brain health. Social isolation and aloneness can contribute to cognitive decline and increase the risk of depression. Having social interactions helps to maintain good brain plasticity and reduce stress.
Lifestyle factors can significantly benefit the aging population and therefore reduce the risk of developing dementia. The damage of dementia is too great not to adopt good, healthy habits starting today!
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