How addressing key risk factors can prevent dementia

picture of grandparents laughing with apparently 2 of their grandchildren. the picture is an example of one of the key risk factors

New research highlights key risk factors for dementia prevention

A recent study highlights the importance of managing certain key risk factors to reduce dementia rates. As the global population ages, this becomes even more crucial. According to a 2024 update from The Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention [i] , nearly half of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed. By addressing 14 modifiable risk factors, such as hearing loss, high LDL cholesterol, and social isolation, significant progress can be made.

Crucial risk factors

Furthermore, the report emphasises that managing these factors, including the use of hearing aids, can significantly reduce the risk of dementia. For instance, hearing loss contributes to 7% of preventable risk factors. Now, the evidence supporting hearing aids to prevent cognitive decline is stronger than ever. This makes early intervention crucial.

Additionally, this finding directly relates to healthy ageing. As life expectancy rises, the challenge of maintaining cognitive health grows. We must develop strategies that extend life while improving its quality. The report also suggests that addressing these risk factors is both effective and cost-saving. Dementia care is costly, and prevention could help reduce these expenses.

Adressing the gap

The updated research emphasizes the need for early action in managing health as we age. By addressing these factors early, we can not only live longer but also improve the quality of those extra years. This fits with broader public health goals that focus on prevention and continued research will be needed to adjust strategies as new information becomes available. These findings also support our project COMFORTage. Check out our new section Knowledge Oasis and find out our new poster with general information and how we are addressing this approaches!

In conclusion, these findings show the importance of including dementia prevention in public health and personal healthcare plans. By tackling modifiable risk factors, we can reduce the rising cases of dementia and support healthier, more fulfilling lives for older adults. This aligns with COMFORTage’s mission to improve cognitive health and quality of life for aging populations.

References

[i] https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(24)01296-0/abstract

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Funded by the European Union (Grant Nº 101137301) and supported by Innovative UK (Grant Nº 10103541) . Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

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