Until recently, many doctors believed Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia, was a genetic condition. But more doctors and scientists have begun to think of dementia as a preventable disease, similar to the way doctors now understand heart disease, cancer, and type II diabetes. In fact, researchers believe up to two-thirds of one’s risk for developing dementia is determined by other factors, many of which can be controlled.
Mather Lifeways Institute on Aging, a leader in applied research in the field of aging, has created an evidence-based program that focuses on a variety of lifestyle factors that impact brain health. The six-week program, called Boost Your Brain & Memory, is being offered to community members in partnership with the Evanston Long Term Care Commission at various locations throughout Evanston. The program incorporates video segments and instructor-led activities to guide older adults through a comprehensive overview of the findings and to offer specific activities and lifestyle changes that have been shown to decrease the risk of dementia.