Summary
Highlights
Dementia is a general term for the loss of mental abilities (cognition). Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, especially age-related, but there are many other causes like Parkinson's with Lewy Body Disease, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, and CTE.
To lessen Alzheimer's symptoms, stay socially and mentally active to build high cognitive reserve. Physical fitness and cardiovascular health are crucial; avoid high blood sugar and diabetes. Alcohol can damage the brain, separate from Alzheimer's, but it can worsen symptoms and negatively impact brain health.
The perceived increase in brain diseases like Alzheimer's is largely due to increased awareness and understanding that these are pathological aging, not just 'senile dementia' or normal aging. Many people live to old age with cognitive intactness.
Dr. McKee believes inflammation is a key promoter of brain diseases like Alzheimer's and CTE. She also emphasizes the importance of small vessel (vascular) health. Damage to these blood vessels can accelerate brain diseases due to lack of oxygen and the leakage of noxious substances into the brain.
Any insult to the brain, especially blood vessel damage leading to a leaky blood-brain barrier, can cause inflammation. Trauma and conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar can injure blood vessels. Reducing stress, staying physically fit, eating right, and especially prioritizing sleep are vital, as sleep helps clear harmful substances from the brain.
Parents should consider non-contact or low-risk sports for children. If choosing contact sports, ensure coaches are educated about concussions and head hits. Delay full-contact play until the child is physically robust with a strong neck to resist impacts, as unexpected hits cause more damaging whiplash.