Article Contents
Previous study found that married men are healthier and live longer. And, as long as a married life is approached in an exciting way, it’s going to be a win-win for the couple. Plus, another recent study1 finds another health benefit of being married.
Marriage Reduces Risk of Dementia
Dementia is a loss of brain function and one of the prevalent cognitive declines is the Alzheimer’s disease affecting millions worldwide.
In this study, researchers find that married people have reduced the risk of developing dementia than single and widow individuals. The researchers found that people who are single throughout their lifetime have 42% higher risk of dementia than married people.
Unmarried individuals remained at high risk even after the researchers accounted their physical health. Moreover, the study finds that widowed individuals have 20% higher risk of dementia.
Andrew Sommerlad, a psychiatrist and lead author of the study, and a research fellow at University College London in England says the relationship between married and dementia is not causal.
We don’t think that it is marriage itself or wearing a wedding ring which reduces people’s risk of dementia…. Instead, our research suggests that the possible protective effect is linked to various lifestyle factors which are known to accompany marriage, such as living a generally healthier lifestyle and having more social stimulation as a result of living with a spouse or partner.
Modifiable Factors For Dementia Prevention
While the study suggests that married people are less likely to develop dementia, it doesn’t mean that marriage reduces the risk. Instead, there are modifiable factors that play a role in developing dementia.
Among these modifiable factors include the following;
5Diet
Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining both physical and mental health. An eating lifestyle like the Mediterranean diet and ketogenic diet are beneficial for the brain and overall prevention of cognitive decline.
Moreover, a clean and proper diet triggers the body for its natural detoxification process. In addition, regular consumption of coffee is beneficial for brain health, as well as good for the heart.
4Physical Activity
Consistent physical activity is vital for humans. As a matter of fact, one study finds that in just 10 days of abstaining from exercise causes a reduced blood flow to the brain.
Regular exercise also improves motor skills in senior people and a good anti-aging activity.
3Smoking Habit
Smoking is one of the silent killer. But why are many people still engaging this fatal habit? Well, it’s addictive. Smoking does not only damages the lungs in the long run and also causes cardiovascular issues, but one study2 finds it has negative impact on the brain.
2Sleep Habits
One of the important habits for better health is getting quality sleep. Sleep deprivation has numerous unhealthy consequences. It affects skin health, prostate health, gut health and among many others.
Our brain performs its cleaning function while we’re sleeping. This only functions when we sleep through the glymphatic system. It is similar to the body’s lymphatic system but glymphatic system functions in the brain.
During sleep, the glymphatic system is 10 times more active performing its function of cleaning up protein build up.
One study3 has proven that people who lack sleep have higher risks of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
1Social Connections
The last factor in which the researchers accounted is social connections. A previous study found that social connections are essential for happiness and longevity.
Hence, aim at reaching out to friends and family, or even giving helping hand for those in need counts.
Dancing For Fighting Dementia
Dancing is truly a beneficial exercise for the brain. As a matter of fact, study finds that dancing exercise is an effective anti-aging.
This is why some seniors are dancing to fight against dementia.