As the average life expectancy increases and the population of the planet is rapidly aging, the senile dementia is becoming more common. According to neurologists of the Karolinska Institute, this risk can be minimized, taking into account various factors, ranging from arterial pressure and weight to the degree of physical and mental activity that affect cognitive function.

An increase in the average life expectancy of the population caused an increase in brain disorders associated with natural aging processes, including cognitive impairment and dementia. Over 24 million people worldwide. People suffer from dementia, most often from Alzheimer's disease. In more developed countries, 70 percent of people 75 years and older have dementia. Age is the greatest risk factor for dementia.

The risk of dementia is partly determined by individual genetic susceptibility, but active participation in mental, physical and social activities can delay the onset of the disease while maintaining mental functions, Swedish scientists say.

Additional education at an early age later gives a protective effect to the brain, but, according to neurologists, it is never too late to start learning or improving the education already obtained. The brain, like other parts of the body, requires stimulation and exercise in order to continue to function properly, emphasize clinicians. Physical factors also have significance: not only high and low blood pressure, but also diabetes and obesity in middle age increase the risk of developing dementia after the age of 70. In other words, what is good for the heart, it is good for the brain.

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