Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of unknown cause, and currently, about 95% of dementia cases have no cure. However, recent international studies show that up to 60% of strokes and 40% of dementia cases are linked to modifiable risk factors. In other words, by adjusting daily lifestyle and diet, people can effectively reduce their risk of developing dementia and stroke.

According to a 2023 study published in Frontiers in Neurology, strokes occur suddenly and severely, possibly affecting motor skills, language abilities, or even causing death. Around 30% of stroke patients may develop dementia-related symptoms, making prevention a major public health concern.Nearly 10 million new cases of dementia are diagnosed worldwide each year (Image: Provided by Heho Health)

&ldquoBrain Care Score&rdquo Helps Assess Health Risks

To raise awareness of prevention, researchers developed the Brain Care Score (BCS). The John Tung Foundation states that BCS covers cardiovascular health and dementia risk, including factors also linked to stroke, heart disease, and several cancers. Research shows that increasing the BCS by 5 points significantly reduces health risks:

• Under age 50: Risk reduced by 50%
• Age 50&ndash59: Risk reduced by 46%
• Age 60 and over: Risk reduced by 22%
  
  

This suggests that the earlier healthy habits begin, the better the protective effect. The foundation encourages people to use BCS early on to respond before cognitive decline begins.

Self-Check for Your Brain Score

Dr. Hui-Yu Hsu, Director of the Mental Health Center at the John Tung Foundation, emphasized the importance of building health reserves early, especially before age 50. The Brain Care Score includes 3 main indicators: lifestyle, social interaction, and physical health, with a total of 19 points. Higher scores indicate lower risk. Key criteria include:

• No smoking or having quit (2 points)
• At least 7 hours of sleep per night (1 point)
• Monthly gatherings with family/friends (1 point)
• No alcohol or only on special occasions (2 points)
• Daily intake of 5 servings of fruits/vegetables, low red meat, whole grains (3 points)
  
  

Tips to Keep Your Brain &ldquoYoung&rdquo

Dr. Hsu also shared tips for preventing stroke and dementia through healthy living:

• Balanced diet: Choose natural, unprocessed foods
• Regular exercise: Stay active and improve circulation
• Control blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol
• Quality sleep: 7 hours per night to support brain health
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol
• Manage stress through relaxation and mindfulness
• Stay socially engaged to avoid isolation and mental decline

Developing healthy habits can effectively prevent stroke and dementia (Image: Provided by Heho Health)

Start now to prevent dementia and stroke! Dr. Hsu reminds us that developing habits in diet, exercise, sleep, and social interaction not only reduces risk but also helps keep the brain &ldquoageless&rdquo and healthy for the long term.