People of younger ages can reduce the risk of frontotemporal dementia. This is a neurodegenerative disease that affects adults between 45 and 65 years old. Researchers claim that lifestyle changes reduce a younger adult's risk ofPrevent dementiacan. The experts especially recommend moderate physical exercise, mental games such as puzzles and good sleep.
Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is not oneAlzheimer's disease, but can cause dementia and occurs in the prime of life. Rapid cognitive and physical decline can lead to death in less than a decade. However, a new study published in the journal Alzheimer's and Dementia may offer new hope to those who carry such a genetic mutation.
A systematic review found that physically and cognitively demanding lifestyles are associated with better brain health in aging and Alzheimer's disease. The researchers noted the lack of studies on how lifestyle affects people with FTLD. Their recent findings suggest that those with a genetic predisposition to the condition can take steps that may help.
The study involved 105 people who carry the genetic mutation that causes FTD. All were either asymptomatic or showed mild early symptoms. Also included were 69 people who did not carry the genetic mutation. Participants took part in a series of cognition and memory tests. They were asked about their current mental and physical activities. This included things like socializing, reading and walking.
Brain MRIs were used to determine the degree of brain degeneration. MRI scans after one year showed that lifestyle due to dementia had no significant impact on brain degeneration. However, those who were the most mentally and physically active performed twice as well on cognitive tests as those who were the least active. Carriers of genetic mutations with a more active lifestyle were found to experience more than 55 percent slower decline per year.
Next steps in research
The study authors confirm that while their research shows correlation, it does not prove that lifestyle changes can reduce or alter the progression and risk of dementia. Science must determine this through additional research. For this reason, the study participants are still in the test phase. However, researchers expect larger differences between the more active and less active groups.
“I do not underestimate the value of this study. It's very relevant, but that's not a cure. It is a safe and simple prevention that we recommend to all of our patients for overall health. This is helpful for people who do not yet have symptoms and can delay the onset or slow the rate,” the study authors explained.
“Ideally, we want to target the pathology of the underlying disease through lifestyle modification as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that also includes medications. “
You can find out more about the studyhereexperience.
