Dementia prevention: Modifiable risk factors and brain health

While age and genetics are non-modifiable risk factors for dementia, experts suggest that a significant portion of cases may be preventable. According to the Alzheimer Forschung Initiative (AFI), approximately 45 percent of all dementia cases worldwide are linked to modifiable risk factors.

A 2024 report from the Lancet Commission identifies 14 modifiable risk factors, including obesity, high alcohol consumption, and type 2 diabetes.

One key strategy for maintaining brain health is fostering regular social contact. Engaging in conversations requires the brain to process tone, facial expressions, and memory, which helps train concentration, memory, and language skills. Conversely, social isolation is considered a risk factor for the development of dementia.