Most of us know someone suffering with some form of dementia. “Dementia” is a broad umbrella term for loss of cognitive function and memory. On a weekly basis, I deal with patients suffering from different dementias, at different stages in the process of the illness. It’s a tough thing for the patient, as well as their loved ones, to have to deal with. As time goes on, dementia is no longer specific to people in their 80's and 90's. Dementia is showing up earlier and earlier in the life span. There are ways in which we can stave off the disease and we should start thinking about them sooner than later. Thankfully, promising research has shown that we aren't helpless in the prevention of cognitive decline.

Here are four tips to begin implementing to keep your brain alert.

1. Mental Activity

Keeping the brain wheels turning as long as possible has proven to be helpful in dementia prevention, according the Mayo Clinic. Puzzles, word games and memory training exercises can raise mental acuity and delay dementia onset. Know the saying, “Use it or lose it”? Well, it applies to the brain, as well.

2. Eat Well

According to the National Institute on Aging, studies have shown that the consumption of certain foods can ward off dementia. Diets rich in green, leafy veggies and cruciferous veggies (like broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, etc) are associated with deterrence of cognitive decline. Research shows that DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, as well as foods rich in antioxidants (like, berries, grapes, beets and tomatoes) have been proven to keep the brain in tip-top shape.

3. Social Activity

Studies have also shown links between social activity and dementia prevention. Woman's Day magazine claims that those who maintain healthy relationships with family and friends may live up to 20% longer and have a greater possibility of memory retention.

4. Physical Exercise

Shocker, right? According to the *Alzheimer's Research and Prevention Foundation, physical activity can reduce the risk of developing the disease by 50%. No need to go overboard on the exercising, though. Start off slow and work your way up if you haven't really been active in a while (or ever, LOL)

Remember, this information applies to us all now, no matter how young. The points mentioned can easily be implemented in our lives as well as shared with those we love.

*bear in mind that Alzheimer's Disease is just one form of dementia.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, run it by your healthcare provider and see what s/he has to say. They are familiar with you and your medical history and can provide great advice as to how to take the best possible care of your body.