Aging and genetics are two known risk factors of developing dementia. Although aging and genetics cannot be prevented, a growing body of research evidence exists that identifies 12 potentially modifiable risk factors.
Physical inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, air pollution, head injury, infrequent social contact, less education, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, depression and hearing impairment are the 12 modifiable risk factors. Recent research indicates that if all of these risk factors could be modified, up to 40% of cases of dementia could be delayed or prevented.