LATEST STUDIES IN LONGEVITY
SPOTLIGHT ON DEMENTIA
You may have heard of the saying ‘use it or lose it’ when it comes to brain function, but what weight does this sentiment carry in terms of dementia risk?
Significant research into dementia risk is focusing on lifestyle factors and how they can be modified to help prevent the disease, one of the key factors that has been highlighted here is mental stimulation. A study published in Neurology revealed that cognitively stimulating activities, such as journaling, playing chess, and solving crossword puzzles, can delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease, the most common type of dementia, by up to 5 years. Further research supports these findings, showing that regularly engaging in brain-challenging activities is overall associated with a lower risk of developing dementia among older adults. Adding to this, other studies have found that cognitively passive tasks such as watching TV is associated with increased dementia risk while cognitively active tasks reduce this risk. Engaging in these activities has been found to build cognitive reserve acting as a mental buffer against memory loss.
So, to keep your brain sharp and ward off dementia, consider mixing in some mental workouts with your daily routine—wether that’s completing the daily New York Times games, newspaper crosswords or sudokus, or challenging your friends and family to chess or card games, there are many easy ways to do this!
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July 31, 2024
In a report of dementia, prevention and care, alcohol abuse was named as a risk factor linked to 40% of all dementia cases.
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July 31, 2024
Did you know that longevity and overall healthy cognition is intrinsically linked to social connectivity? Regular social contact in any form is a powerful and easy way of exercising our brains, thought to build resilience against the pathology of Dementia.
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July 25, 2024
Exciting news in osteoarthritis research! Scientists have created 'dancing molecules' that mimic key proteins to boost cartilage repair. More research is needed but these dynamic molecules show promise in regenerating tissue!
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August 20, 2024
New research suggests severe menopausal symptoms may be linked to a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment, possibly increasing dementia risk. While causation isn't proven, it highlights the need to explore menopause's impact on brain health.
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August 6, 2024
Improving physical function is key to reducing fracture risk in older women with diabetes. A Swedish study found that despite higher bone density, these women face a 27-71% higher fracture risk and lower physical activity scores.
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June 30, 2024
New research in mice reveals how ageing alters brain blood vessels, making them less penetrative and efficient and reducing blood flow and oxygen supply to critical areas. These changes likely contribute to neurodegenerative disease.
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July 23, 2024
Healthier lifestyle = better brain health! Study shows that improving lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of depression, dementia, and stroke. Key factors include BP, cholesterol, BMI, nutrition, sleep, and stress.
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July 17, 2024
Scientists discovered that deactivating the IL-11 protein in mice can extend their healthy lifespan by nearly 25%, suggesting potential for similar anti-aging treatments in humans with minimal side effects.
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July 3, 2024
Researchers at UTMB developed a nasal spray that boosts cognitive function in mouse models of dementia. The treatment targets and reduces tau protein buildup, improving memory and behavior with a single dose.
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July 9, 2024
Big benefits from small fish! A new study shows eating fish like sardines & anchovies can reduce mortality & cancer risks in women. Packed with omega-3s & calcium, they're also a sustainable choice. Aim for 2 servings a week!
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August 2024
Cambridge researchers developed an AI tool with 82% accuracy in predicting Alzheimer’s progression using MRI scans and cognitive tests. This tool is 3x more accurate than current methods.
