Preventing Dementia: Valuable Advice from Expert Neurologist Andrew Budson: The increasing average age of the global population has brought dementia into the spotlight as a critical public health issue. Currently, close to 7 million individuals in the United States are managing Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, a figure anticipated to double by the year 2060. Dementia, which manifests as a deterioration in memory, cognitive abilities, and daily activities, is not an unavoidable consequence of growing older. Dr. Andrew E. Budson, a neurologist trained at Harvard University and a Neurology Professor at Boston University, as well as the co-author of Seven Steps to Managing Your Aging Memory, suggests that making simple changes to one’s lifestyle and diet can significantly lower the likelihood of developing dementia. His expertise offers practical advice that is accessible to everyone looking to safeguard their cognitive health as they age.

Understanding Dementia and Its Causes

Dementia is an umbrella term for conditions marked by cognitive decline severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type, but vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia also contribute to the overall burden. Dr. Budson explains that many individuals who develop dementia have multiple overlapping causes — such as Alzheimer’s plaques, mini-strokes, and Lewy bodies — especially in their 80s. This complexity underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach to prevention.

8 Dementia Prevention Strategies That Work

Dr. Budson emphasizes that dementia prevention is achievable through everyday lifestyle tweaks and dietary shifts. Here are eight evidence-backed strategies he recommends:

1. Adopt a Brain-Healthy Diet

Diets rich in fish, olive oil, fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and whole grains—such as the Mediterranean or MIND diet—have been shown to lower Alzheimer’s risk. Including poultry like chicken and turkey further enhances benefits. These diets provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients that protect brain cells.

2. Engage in Regular Physical Exercise

Exercise is one of the most powerful tools against cognitive decline. It promotes the growth of new brain cells in the hippocampus, the memory center, and improves cardiovascular health, which indirectly benefits the brain. The federal guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, spread throughout the week.

3. Prioritize Quality Sleep

Consistently getting six to eight hours of restorative sleep reduces dementia risk. Poor sleep in midlife is linked to higher chances of cognitive decline later. Sleep helps clear brain toxins that accumulate during waking hours.

4. Manage Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Controlling diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure is crucial since vascular health directly impacts brain function. Preventing strokes and mini-strokes reduces vascular dementia risk.

5. Avoid Head Injuries

Protecting the brain from trauma by wearing seatbelts, helmets, and fall-proofing homes lowers dementia risk. Head injuries can accelerate cognitive decline.

6. Stimulate the Brain Mentally and Socially

Cognitive training, social engagement, and lifelong learning build cognitive reserve, helping the brain compensate for age-related changes and pathology. Although research is ongoing, mental stimulation remains a recommended preventive measure.

7. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking

Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking increase dementia risk. Reducing or eliminating these habits supports overall brain health.

8. Maintain a Healthy Gut Microbiome

Emerging evidence suggests that gut health influences brain function through the gut-brain axis. Consuming fiber-rich foods, probiotics like yogurt, nuts, and berries supports a healthy microbiome, which may reduce inflammation and neurodegenerative risk.

Everyday Lifestyle Tweaks to Incorporate

Dr. Budson advises practical daily habits that anyone can adopt. For example, turning off distractions to improve focus helps memory retention, especially in early cognitive impairment stages. Structured routines, hydration, balanced meals, and avoiding multitasking can enhance cognitive performance. These small changes make a big difference over time.

The Bottom Line on Dementia Prevention

Nearly 40% of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed through lifestyle and preventive medicine, even among those with genetic predispositions. The key lies in consistent, manageable habits rather than drastic measures. Dr. Budson and other experts agree that aerobic exercise, a brain-healthy diet, quality sleep, and cardiovascular health management form the cornerstone of dementia prevention.

In summary, dementia prevention is not about a single magic bullet but a combination of everyday choices that collectively support brain resilience. By integrating these strategies into daily life, individuals can maintain cognitive health and enjoy a better quality of life as they age.

We offer the most up-to-date information from top experts, new research, and health agencies, but our content is not meant to be a substitute for professional guidance. When it comes to the medication you’re taking or any other health questions you have, always consult your healthcare provider directly.