Currently there is no proven way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Some animal studies seem to have found promising leads but as we know, human studies take much longer to produce safe, effective results. There are, however, many theories on how to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Preventing Alzheimer’s Disease

There are many ways doctors think a person can reduce their risk of Alzheimer’s disease. While many supplements or medications to prevent Alzheimer’s are still undergoing study, scientists and doctors have noted that certain lifestyle choices seem to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Since a healthy lifestyle is much easier, not to mention better for your body, we’ll focus on simple changes you can make now to try and prevent any sort of decline in mental ability later.

Mental Stimulation to Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

It has been shown over and over that an active, lively mind is less likely to experience cognitive impairment of any sort, and Alzheimer’s in particular. By challenging your mind on a regular basis and stimulating those brain cells into activity, you may reduce your risk of mental decline. Doctors aren’t all convinced however, citing advanced learning as a way to learn to hide symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

Healthy Aging

Studies show that those who maintain their physical health as they age are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. There are many factors that seem to contribute to mental decline in general, including smoking, excessive alcohol, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a high calorie diet and depression. All of these factors are likely to stem from an inactive lifestyle and a poor diet. And, since physical activity is linked to a decrease in depression, the benefits of regular exercise are numerous.

For the elderly especially, who may frequently feel excluded from or unable to join social activities, exercise can be a way to combat feelings of loneliness as well. Many older people enjoy ballroom dance classes, water aerobics or simply regular walks as ways to get their exercise and socialize at the same time. Others may enjoy yoga or Pilates as low-impact exercises that increase strength and flexibility.

Other Methods to Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

There are other ways which may help prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease; however no doctor is convinced of their effectiveness enough to recommend regular use.

• NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) – Studies have shown that NSAIDs may prevent Alzheimer’s, which is affected by inflammation in the brain. However, there’s no way to prove inflammation is a cause or an effect of the disease, and, as NSAIDs can be dangerous, doctors do not recommend using them as a prevention device
• Statins – Statins are used to lower cholesterol, but seem to have an effect on Alzheimer’s disease. Again, doctors don’t know enough to recommend using them to prevent onset of Alzheimer’s.
• Vitamins – Many vitamins are being promoted to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia. Fish oils, omega-3 fatty acids, gingko, vitamin E and B vitamins are all recommended lately. While studies cannot completely confirm the validity of these claims, we do know that a multi vitamin in addition to a well balanced diet can go a long way to keep your body healthy.
• Red Wine – Some studies have shown a link between moderate consumption of red wine and lower risk of mental decline. Again, no doctor will recommend the consumption of alcohol as a means of disease prevention.

Sources:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/alzheimers-disease/DS00161/DSECTION=8
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/4-ways-stop-age-related-memory-loss