That concern is surely legitimate as we face not only our own mortality, but the oncoming rush of approximately 74 million aging baby boomers, 28 million of whom are expected to live long enough to develop dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. That’s sparked an increase in funding for Alzheimer’s research, a cause popular with all political parties. The funding has had an important trickle-down effect: Using longitudinal studies and magnetic resonance imaging, the latest dementia research now tells us not just about damaged brains, but also about healthy ones. Research indicates interventions like exercise, social engagement, intellectual stimulation, heart-healthy diets, meditation, and even our own attitudes toward aging can postpone or possibly prevent dementia. This could lower health care costs and change how the medical community works with older people.
Yes, our cognition slows as we grow older, but some activities and even attitudes can help.
