Dementia seems to be more common these days, despite life spans increasing. However, Swedish scientist Laura Fratiglioni has shown that everyone can minimize his or her risk of being affected by the disease. Factors from blood pressure and weight to the degree of physical and mental activity can influence cognitive functioning as one gets older.
Fratiglioni's research group at Karolinska Institutet is a leader in identifying the risk factors that lie behind developing dementia and using this knowledge to develop possible preventative strategies. The group's research has shown that the risk is partly determined by an individual genetic susceptibility, and that active involvement in mental, physical and social activities can delay the onset of dementia by preserving cognitive functions. Further education early in life has a protective effect, and the group's research has shown that it is never too late to get started.
"The brain, just as other parts of the body, requires stimulation and exercise in order to continue to function. Elderly people with an active life - mentally, physically and socially - run a lower risk of developing dementia, and it doesn't matter what the particular activities are", says Fratiglioni.
