Editor’s note: Home Sweet Home is a feature appearing Mondays in McKnight’s Home Care Daily Pulse. The story focuses on a heartwarming, entertaining or quirky happening affecting the world of home care. If you have a topic that might be worthy of the spotlight in Home Sweet Home, please email Caroline Szachnowski at [email protected].

An estimated 6.2 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s. By 2050, that number may grow to a projected 12.7 million, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

While there is no sure-fire way to prevent Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, there are a few key changes that older adults can make to reduce their risk of developing it.

Kristen Osterhoudt, training and education coordinator at the Caregiver Support Initiative, shared some tips on how to prevent the onset of dementia.

“Aging is an unavoidable process,” Osterhoudt said. “But there are some lifestyle changes to be made.”

Knowing the risk factors is a crucial starting point.

Risk factors of dementia and Alzheimer’s vary, but some common ones include low physical activity, hypertension, smoking and alcohol consumption. 

Lifestyle changes

To prevent an Alzheimer’s or other dementia diagnosis, making some even basic lifestyle changes can go a long way. These changes include diet modifications, physical activity changes and taking part in routine screenings to stay aware of any health issues and treat them accordingly. Per eating changes, following a Mediterranean or DASH diet, for instance, can be helpful, said Osterhoudt. 

Other prevention tips include maintaining a healthy weight, keeping the brain active — such as by reading, doing crossword puzzles or other mentally-stimulating activities — and maintaining adequate social interaction. 

Caregiver self-care

Caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s can take a toll on caregivers’ well-being. As a result, caregivers also should adhere to a healthy lifestyle for their own dementia prevention.

“Because caregivers are so focused on caring for their loved ones, they often neglect their own health in the process,” Osterhoudt said. This can include opting for quick and easy delivery meals, not keeping regular sleep schedules and generally putting their own self care on the backburner. 

When caregivers prioritize their own health and well-being, they are more equipped to care for their loved ones. Preparing nutritious meals, seeking help from others (either professional or from loved ones), taking time to de-stress and incorporating physical activity into their days can go a long way.

Together, both caregivers and loved ones can do their part to keep dementia at bay.