Researchers analyzed data from more than 196,000 adults aged over 60 from the UK Biobank for this study. Genetic risk was calculated using a previously developed score for frailty, which reflects the accumulation of age-related symptoms, signs, diseases, and disabilities. These were analyzed along with a score on healthy lifestyle behaviors and a percentage of those who developed dementia.
Dementia in the participants was detected through hospital admission records. Researchers found a total of 1,762 people who had dementia and noted they were much more likely to have a high degree of frailty before their diagnosis compared with those who did not develop dementia.
Researchers examined the impact of genetic risk for dementia in people with different degrees of frailty. In the frailest participants, the risk of dementia was high regardless of their genes. For those who were at the highest risk of dementia due to their genes, the risk was lowest in people who were fit and highest in people who were in poor health.
Lead author Dr. David Ward said, “Our research is a major step forward in understanding how reducing frailty could help to improve a person’s chances of avoiding dementia dramatically, regardless of their genetic predisposition to the condition. This is exciting because we believe that some of the underlying causes of frailty are in themselves preventable. In our study, this looked to be possible partly through engaging in healthy lifestyle behaviors.”
This research helps to identify ways to reduce the risk of dementia. Overall, participants who reported more engagement in healthy lifestyle behaviors were less likely to develop dementia. Researchers suggest this is partly because they had a lower degree of frailty.
Brain Health
Brain health is a common concern as people age. With dementia and Alzheimer’s cases rising throughout the population, studies such as this are essential to outline prevention techniques and treatments for the diseases.
A healthy lifestyle includes exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and making sure you’re getting all the essential vitamins and nutrients for healthy brain function.
The Smart Pill makes a great addition to a daily routine to help maximize brain health and cognitive function. With nine essential vitamins, The Smart Pill helps to boost circulation, fight free radicals, and provide nutritional support.