Laurie Owen: Hi! I'm Laurie Owen from Home Instead Senior Care. In this video, myself and Dr. Jane Potter from the University of Nebraska Medical Center will discuss how to prevent Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

Most experts agree that Alzheimer's disease or other dementias likely develop as a result of multiple factors including advancing age and family history. These two things are risk factors we cannot change. But now, research is demonstrating that through healthy lifestyle choices and proper health management, we maybe able to reduce our risk of Alzheimer's disease or other dementias.

Dr. Jane F. Potter: Growing evidence links brain health to heart health. A risk of developing Alzheimer's or Vascular dementia appears to be increased by many of the same conditions that damage the heart and blood vessels. By eating a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet, and quitting smoking not only can you help prevent heart disease, stroke, and high cholesterol, you may also reduce your risk of Alzheimer's or Vascular dementia. And just like heart health, exercise seems to be important for brain health.

A growing body of research suggests that exercising two or more times per week reduces risk of cognitive decline in later life. And while exercising, you reduce your risk of diabetes and high blood pressure which are also linked to heart disease and stroke.

So take care of yourself and practice a healthy lifestyle. This means getting regular physical as well as mental exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, and excessive alcohol, and staying socially connected.

Laurie Owen: Research is also underway that should help grow the number and development of potentially disease modifying drugs and genetic testing. Both of which could one day aid in preventing Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

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