Having a happy Christmas can help to slash the risk of dementia in later life, scientists say
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Just in case the generous gifts, delicious food and family get-togethers are not enough, here’s another reason to enjoy a very happy Christmas. Scientists have found being chirpy and generally satisfied with life could slash the risk of dementia in later years by up to 70 per cent.
![[Feeling fed up or depressed is known to trigger higher levels in the brain of the stress hormone cortisol, which has been linked to brain shrinkage, cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s (File image)]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/15/23/93174247-14195479-Feeling_fed_up_or_depressed_is_known_to_trigger_higher_levels_in-a-16_1734304514703.jpg)
Volunteers who reported being very contented with their work, relationships and social lives were significantly less likely to develop the incurable mind-wasting disease. And older participants happy with their lot also had a 60 per cent lower risk of developing mild cognitive impairment – lapses in memory and concentration which are thought to be the precursor to full-blown dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Around 900,000 people in the UK suffer with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The number is expected to rise to 1.5m by 2040 - due to an ageing population. Doctors recommend regular physical exercise, a healthy diet and limited alcohol intake to protect against the illness.
An active social life, regular hearing tests and stimulating mental tasks – such as puzzles and crosswords – are also thought to help. Scientists have found being chirpy and generally satisfied with life could slash the risk of dementia in later years by up to 70 per cent (File image).
Feeling fed up or depressed is known to trigger higher levels in the brain of the stress hormone cortisol, which has been linked to brain shrinkage, cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s (File image). But the latest study, by a team of experts at Florida State University, suggests also being content with life can have a powerful protective effect.
