Reducing Your Risk of Cognitive Decline
Did you know that up to 45% of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed?
No matter your age, you can take action to protect and improve your thinking skills and brain health – and that action doesn't involve taking more pills. In fact, a combination of lifestyle changes and cognitive rehabilitation therapy (activities that help maintain or improve your brain functioning) can have a meaningful impact on your day-to-day life. Moneta's licensed speech-language pathologists incorporate the latest research into a tailored program aimed at reducing your risk of cognitive decline.
What Contributes to Brain Health?
Changes in how your brain functions are to be expected as you age. You may forget names, have difficulty finding the right word, or follow the flow of a conversation. But sometimes memory lapses are more persistent and troublesome. You may wonder, is there anything I can do to protect my brain and guard against cognitive decline? Research shows that there are numerous lifestyle factors beyond genetics that matter. Diet, physical exercise, sleep, and stress can all impact how your brain functions, as well as your overall health.
Experts have demonstrated that targeting these lifestyle factors can have a meaningful impact on people's lives. “It would be great if we had drugs that worked [to reduce the risk of cognitive decline], but they're not the only way forward,” said Dr. Gill Livingston, a psychiatrist at University College London and chair of the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care.
Combining lifestyle changes with cognitive rehabilitation therapy can help keep your brain and body in good shape. For example, did you know that social isolation puts a person at risk for both physical and mental decline?
Many of us have struggled with a loss of social connection during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thankfully, there are professionals who can help. An expert speech-language pathologist can teach you cognitive strategies to help you follow conversations more easily. When you return to approaching social situations with confidence, you'll be protecting your brain at the same time!
“With many of my social events going virtual I found myself struggling to remember certain tasks or keep up with conversations. This was the main reason tried Moneta's Healthy Brain Program and was delighted to learn that the activities they provided made such a difference!”
Elvira, 86, Moneta Patient
Feeling socially isolated or losing confidence in social situations? Want to take action now in your daily life to prevent dementia? Talk to one of our clinicians today to see how Moneta can help.