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Alzheimer's Prevention


The Complexity of Alzheimer's Disease

In their quest to stay healthy as they age, many people wonder what they can do to prevent Alzheimer's. Research has revealed some clues, but right now there are no clear-cut answers.

Like diabetes and heart disease, Alzheimer's disease is complex and it develops over many years. There is a genetic link, yet not all people with family history develop the disease. Age is a factor, as the risk of developing Alzheimer's doubles every five years after age 65.

We certainly can't control our age and family history. We can control health, lifestyle and environmental factors. Research shows that an active, healthy lifestyle can go a long way in lowering the chance of developing Alzheimer's, just as it helps in cutting risk of diabetes and heart disease.




As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.

By Jeanie Davis and Debra Fulghum Bruce, PhD
Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD

SOURCES: WebMD Public Information from the U.S. National Institutes of Health: "Preventing Alzheimer's." WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise: "Alzheimer's Disease: Prevention." WebMD Medical Reference from MedicineNet: "Dementia Prevention: Brain Exercise." WebMD Medical News: "Mental Stimulation May Cut Alzheimer's," "Regular Exercise May Delay Alzheimer's," "Eat Smart for a Healthier Brain," "Red Wine May Prevent Alzheimer's," "Drinking Juice May Stall Alzheimer's," "Loneliness May Up Alzheimer's Risk," "Diabetes: New Links to Alzheimer's," "Depression May Worsen Alzheimer's," "Social Buffer Against Alzheimer's?" "Mediterranean Diet May Cut Alzheimer's." WebMD Weight Loss Clinic Expert Column: "9 Steps to Eating Healthier in 2007." WebMD Medical Reference provided in collaboration with The Cleveland Clinic: "Is Alzheimer's Genetic?"