Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior, and ultimately, interferes with daily activities. It is the most common cause of dementia among older adults.

The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is still unknown, but research suggests that there are certain risk factors that increase the chances of developing the disease. Here are five important risk factors you need to be aware of:.

Age

Age is the biggest risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. The older you are, the greater your chances of developing the disease.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the risk of Alzheimer’s doubles every five years after the age of 65. By age 85, the risk reaches almost 50 percent.

Family history and genetics

Having a family history of Alzheimer’s disease puts you at a higher risk of developing the disease yourself.

If you have a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s, your risk of developing the disease is higher compared to someone without a family history. Scientists have also identified certain genes that can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s.

Head injuries

Head injuries can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. This is particularly true if the head injury was severe or involved loss of consciousness.

Studies have found that people with a history of head injury have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s later in life compared to people without a history of head injury.

Lifestyle factors

Several lifestyle factors can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. These include:.

Smoking
Poor diet
Lack of exercise
Chronic stress
High blood pressure
Diabetes

These factors can contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s by damaging blood vessels in the brain and causing inflammation that can lead to brain cell damage.

Cognitive decline

Older adults who experience cognitive decline may be at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. This can include a decline in memory, language, or other cognitive functions.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a condition that can precede Alzheimer’s disease, and people with MCI have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s later on.

While there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, understanding the risk factors can help you take steps to reduce your risk.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting your head from injury, and getting regular cognitive check-ups can all be beneficial in reducing your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. If you have a family history of the disease or are concerned about your risk, talk to your healthcare provider about additional steps you can take.