Existing Technology

There are many existing technology and modern preventions used to prevent Dementia. Most technology ou there and preventions are very physical based rather than modern technology. Although most elders currently are used to the physical aspect rather than technology since they aren't familiar, for future generations that are at risk or that have it, modern technology is the best method of prevention because more future generations will be comfortable with technology. Also most elders that are affected with Dementia, play games that any average 1-2 year old kid would play so most technologies and activities are kid based.

Preventions

healthy diet: MIND diet, based on Mediterranean diet, has shown to slow cognitive decline
exercise: can lower risk for Dementia by between 30%-90% (depending on the intensity of exercise)
social interactions: loneliness can increase risk of Dementia by 40% - that being said, people who are married or have daily social interactions have a 60% lower risk of dementia
meaningful activities: strong sense of purpose shows fewer signs of aging - working past retirement age, taking care of pets, spending time with family
sleep: deep sleep is necessary for the brain to maintain itself and get rid of toxins associated with Alzheimer's disease
stress: long-term stress can change the structure of the brain
blood pressure control: those with high blood pressure have a higher risk of getting Dementia
cognitive training: computer-based cognitive training may help delay or slow age-related cognitive decline

Technologies & Activities

arts and crafts: keeps mind active and hands nimble
world puzzles: can get brain buzzing and give the mind a workout - helps stimulate the brain and allow it to make connections
bingo: stimulates hearing, touch and sight - also a great social activity
interactive online games: enhances the memory and improve mental health
match the color and shape puzzle game
hardcover childrens books
fidget toys
vintage puzzles
singing plushy
lock box memory game

Ongoing Research

Alzheimer's Association

Causes?

age
genetics
environment
lifestyle
coexisting medical conditions

Prevention Studies?

ongoing clinical trial (by DIAN) - testing whether antibodies to beta-amyloid (protein treatment known to be found in brains of Alzheimer's patients) can reduce the risk of the disease to beta-amyloid plaque with such genetic mutations
clinical trial (known as A4 trial) - whether antibodies to beta-amyloid can reduce risk in older people ages ranging from 65 to 85 years old

*research continues to evolve*

International Research Network on Dementia Prevention

Objective?

classifying dynamic distributions of non-cognitive trajectories
identifying modifiable risk-elevating and risk-reducing factors that eliminate normal trajectory patterns from declining

Prevention Studies?

Use three aging trajectories to monitor older adults:

Stable (SMA - red): above average level, sustained slope
Normal (NMA - blue): average level, moderately declining slope
Declining (DMA - green): below average level, substantially declining slope

*research continues to evolve*

Reference Links:

Martorelli, Chriss, et al. “12 Engaging Activities for Seniors with Dementia: Reduce Agitation and Boost Mood.” DailyCaring, 23 Oct. 2019, dailycaring.com/12-engaging-activities-for-seniors-with-dementia-reduce-agitation-boost-mood/.

McFall, et al. “Modifiable Risk Factors Discriminate Memory Trajectories in Non-Demented Aging: Precision Factors and Targets for Promoting Healthier Brain Aging and Preventing Dementia.” Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, IOS Press, 1 Jan. 2019, content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-alzheimers-disease/jad180571.

“Preventing Alzheimer's Disease: What Do We Know?” National Institute on Aging, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 24 Sept. 2018, www.nia.nih.gov/health/preventing-alzheimers-disease-what-do-we-know.

“Prevention.” Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia, www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/research_progress/prevention.

SuperCarers. “Brain Games to Improve Memory.” SuperCarers, SuperCarers, 20 Nov. 2017, supercarers.com/blog/games-for-elderly/.

Woods, Cassidy, et al. “Science-Backed Ways to Prevent Dementia.” Being Patient, 17 Apr. 2019, www.beingpatient.com/ways-to-prevent-dementia/.

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