Is your brain at risk of dementia? 10 warning signs

Our brains are truly complex, intricate organs that are, unfortunately, prone to breaking down as we age. Everything affects the health of our brains—from stress to your diet to your sleep to your immune health to the amount of mental and physical exercise you get every week. The problem is: by the time you can see the signs that your brain is deteriorating, it may be too late.  These signs typically crop up once the degeneration is severe enough to cause visible symptoms. That’s why it’s SO important to be on the lookout for even the slightest hint that your brain is at risk so you can take steps to prevent, not just treat the problems. Here are 10 clear warning signs to watch out for: Confusion with time or place: If you find yourself struggling to recall where you are, losing track of dates, or unable to remember an event scheduled to happen later, it may be a sign your brain has begun to deteriorate. Mood and personality changes: Fearfulness, suspicion, and increased irritability (especially in common situations) are often the result of brain deterioration. Struggles with problem-solving and planning: You’ve cooked the same recipes and paid your bills exactly the same way for years, but suddenly you’re having a hard time doing it? Definitely a warning sign! Visual and spatial impairment: Poor balance, distance judgement, and spatial awareness are all signs of brain deterioration. If you suddenly trip a lot, drop, or spill things, it could be a warning to watch out for. Problems recalling words: This may happen both in verbal and written speech. Suddenly, your brain struggles to recall what should be easy, familiar words. Withdrawing from social activities and/or work: You may struggle to follow sports, conversations, or complex work assignments, so you end up withdrawing from those situations. Memory loss: If you forget events or repeat yourself, your brain may be struggling. Poor/decreased judgement: Your smart decision-making skills may be impaired by brain deterioration, making you more susceptible to scams, poor money management, less care for hygiene, etc. Having a hard time completing simple everyday tasks: You may find yourself struggling to cook, go grocery shopping, drive, operate a cell phone, or use mildly complex electronic devices. Misplacing items: It’s normal to lose your keys, wallet, or phone every once in a while, but as brain deterioration worsens, you may end up losing those items in odd places (such as the fridge) or having a hard time retracing your steps to find lost items. Pay attention to your daily life, so you can be on the alert for any of the warning signs listed above. Your brain needs you to protect it and take steps to prevent deterioration before the problems get too bad. When it comes to your brain, prevention is always more effective than treatment! Action Steps to Protect Your Brain Stay physically active: Exercising and working out is critical for a healthy brain. Stay mentally active: Learn a new skill, dance, do puzzles, play word games, or practice a hobby. Regular mental stimulation is crucial for maintaining good brain health! Stay social: Social connections are absolutely vital for your brain. People with strong social ties have been proven to have a reduced risk of dementia and other brain deterioration, as well as better physical and mental health as they age.  Your brain needs you to start working to protect it TODAY so you can enjoy many more happy years of healthy cognitive function!

Yours in good health, Andrew Peloquin Editor-in-Chief, The Longevity Journal