| Uncontrollable | Controllable |
|---|---|
| Age | High blood pressure |
| Genetics | Smoking |
| Family history | Diabetes |
| Obesity | |
| Physical inactivity | |
| Depression | |
| Social isolation |
What you can control: Managing blood pressure, not smoking, staying active, eating well, staying socially engaged, and treating depression all reduce risk.
The Bottom Line
Early detection matters. Not because we can cure dementia (we can't yet), but because:
-
Treatments work better when started early
-
Reversible causes can be identified and treated
-
Planning can happen while the person can participate
-
Quality of life can be maintained longer
If something on this list resonates, please reach out to a healthcare professional. You're not overreacting. You're not being dramatic. You're being an advocate for your health or the health of someone you love.
You deserve answers. You deserve support. And you deserve to move forward with hope.
