As America ages, dementia diagnoses poised to double

The “greying of America” is a phrase used for several decades in reference to the shifts likely to emerge as the largest demographic group, baby boomers, reaches retirement age. That time has finally arrived: in the next five years, every member of the generation, totaling over 70 million older adults, will be aged 65 or older. With more older and elderly adults than ever, societal needs will change in terms of long-term care facilities and beds, geriatric specialists, trained caregivers, potential workforce shortages and more.

Another trend brought on by the ‘greying’ effect is a projected uptick in dementia diagnoses. A recent study funded by the NIH with collaboration from NYU and Johns Hopkins University found that the risk of developing dementia is going to radically increase – in fact, double – in the coming years. By 2060, there could be one-million new dementia diagnoses every year. It is now estimated that for adults aged 55 and over, there is a 42% chance risk of developing dementia. Women have a higher risk given their traditionally longer life expectancies. The study additionally points to another critical risk factor: race. Black adults could have potentially triple the risk for developing dementia.

While this widespread projection of increased risk is a direct result of people living longer due to advances in medicine, there are other factors likely at play. These include genetics, chronic illness, and lifestyle choices. Given all of this, what are the implications of the study's findings?

Firstly, these findings underscore the importance of overall preventive care. Programs that increase prevention and screening efforts for heart disease and diabetes may also be supportive of a slower mental decline onset. Secondly, with the study projecting out more than three decades, there is time to plan for and enact more widespread services for those with dementia. Needs will change around transportation, technology literacy, provider training, and housing. Lastly, knowing that dementia is poised to affect black individuals at a higher rate, it is important to emphasize community education and support measures.

If you are worried about dementia developing in either yourself or a loved one, there are behaviors linked with better overall health as aging occurs. These are all positive ways to be proactive and ‘do something’ to help possibly reduce risk.

• Get active. Numerous studies have demonstrated that physical activity can be protective against the onset of dementia. This study found that older adults with better cardiorespiratory fitness had a 35% lower risk of developing dementia. This even includes those with an increased genetic risk. Swimming, brisk walking, or riding a bike are all activities that can help increase a person’s cardio fitness.

• Eat superfoods. Many different studies associate the intake of certain nutrients with slower brain aging. These include certain fatty acids (found in many types of fish), antioxidants (berries, nuts, garlic, and other vegetables), carotenoids (spinach, carrots, broccoli), vitamin E (fruits, seeds), and choline (egg yolks, beef, dairy).

• Understand genetic risk. The APOE gene is known to have an association with the development of Alzheimer’s disease. A person that inherits a copy of this from a parent does have increased risk; someone with two copies has even more risk. However, having the APOE gene does not mean Alzheimer’s onset is a given. Some people with the gene may never get it while others that who lack the gene can still develop the condition. Genetic testing is available and can inform if this gene is present and something to be aware of.

• Aid your hearing. Hearing loss is another factor linked to a higher risk of dementia. Many older adults develop some form of hearing loss but may assume that it is a 'normal' part of aging or feel too proud to wear hearing aids (or may not have the means). If a person’s hearing loss leads them to withdraw from social situations, this can create cognitive decline. Yet hearing aids are smaller than ever and in the US, now available over the counter or online and without a prescription.

• Embrace mental health support. Older adults dealing with mental health challenges such as depression also appear to have increased risk for dementia. Similar to hearing loss, a mental health problem can lead someone to withdraw from social settings. This can negatively impact cognition. In addition, depression is associated with changes in the brain, including inflammation and reduced blood flow. These changes may also contribute to dementia developing.

• Be informed. While the idea of losing one’s ability to process information, recall events and engage socially is scary, particularly if you’ve already witnessed a loved one go through it, staying informed is empowering. It may be tempting to remain unaware of details, but the idea that knowledge is power is true. Often local health systems or community centers offer events to learn more about resources; your PCP is also a good source of information around testing and support.

Preventing or delaying the onset of dementia may be possible by adopting a healthier lifestyle hallmarked by a balanced diet, social opportunities, physical activity, and a focus on optimizing one’s mental health. If this feels overwhelming, know that making small changes over time to achieve goals is a worthwhile endeavor. If you want to learn more about clinical research opportunities for dementia, sign-up with us to be informed when nearby trials are seeking potential participants.