According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are approximately 50 million people worldwide currently living with dementia, with nearly 10 million new cases being diagnosed each year.

While there is no surefire way to prevent dementia, making certain lifestyle changes may help reduce your risk of developing the condition. Here are 7 easy lifestyle changes you can make to cut your dementia risk in half.

1. Exercise Regularly

One of the best things you can do for your overall health is to exercise regularly. In fact, research has shown that exercising for just 30 minutes a day can help reduce your risk of developing dementia by up to 30%.

Exercise helps improve blood flow to the brain, which can help lower your risk of developing dementia as you get older.

2. Get Enough Sleep

Lack of sleep has been linked to an increased risk of dementia, so it’s important to get enough rest each night. Aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night to help keep your brain healthy.

If you have difficulty falling asleep, try creating a bedtime routine to help you relax before bed.

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is important for overall health, as well as for reducing your risk of developing dementia.

A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help keep your brain healthy and reduce your risk of dementia.

4. Stay Socially Active

Staying socially active is another important way to help reduce your risk of dementia. Research has shown that people who are socially active have a lower risk of developing dementia than those who are not.

Joining clubs, volunteering, and spending time with friends and family are all great ways to stay socially active.

5. Manage Stress

Stress can have negative effects on both your mental and physical health, and has been linked to an increased risk of dementia.

Finding ways to manage stress, such as through exercise, meditation, or yoga, can help keep your brain healthy and reduce your risk of developing dementia.

6. Challenge Your Brain

Challenging your brain regularly is another way to reduce your risk of developing dementia. Activities such as crossword puzzles, reading, and playing games have been shown to help keep the brain healthy and active.

It’s important to continue to challenge your brain as you get older to reduce your risk of dementia.

7. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Drinking alcohol in moderation is generally considered safe, but excessive drinking can have negative effects on both your physical and cognitive health.

Limiting alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day can help keep your brain healthy and reduce your risk of developing dementia.

While there is no foolproof way to prevent dementia, making certain lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk of developing the condition.

By exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, staying socially active, managing stress, challenging your brain, and limiting alcohol consumption, you can help cut your dementia risk in half.