Expert on world's oldest people issues advice on 'preventing Alzheimer's'
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An expert on the world's oldest people has shared his views on dementia research while urging people to do one thing. Dan Buettner, 64, has dedicated his career to researching the six rare areas where residents are reportedly 10 times more likely to reach 100 years old than 'average' citizens of the United States.
In a recent TikTok post (@danbuettner), he praised several typical Blue Zone lifestyle habits, and suggested they may play a role in slashing the risk of cognitive decline. "We spend almost $4billion a year searching for a cure for Alzheimer's disease, a noble pursuit, but we spent almost nothing trying to prevent it," he told his followers. "...And it's preventable by eating a Blue Zone diet, which is to say a whole food, plant-based diet.
"Getting at least 20 minutes of physical activity a day, not smoking and doing simple things like having a hobby and doing puzzles, or learning a new language. So, instead of wasting billions, let's focus on a Blue Zone approach and we'll see you when you're 100.".
Dementia is an umbrella term to describe several conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. The NHS estimates that over 944,000 people in the UK are living with dementia, including one in every 11 individuals aged over 65.
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's but there are treatments available to reduce its symptoms, which may include confusion, forgetfulness and speech problems, among others. However, recent research suggests that up to 45% of dementia cases can be prevented by making lifestyle changes.
