Dementia itself is not a disease; it describes a set of symptoms resulting from various brain disorders, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, although a number of other disorders fall under the category of dementia. Certain risk factors can increase a person's chances of developing a type of dementia, some of which are within one's control to prevent.
Age
Dementia is not a normal part of aging; however, the older a person becomes, the greater their risk of developing both Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia as well as other dementia types, according to Arthur Schoenstadt, M.D., of eMedTV.
Genetics
Changes in genes--also known as gene mutations--are a possible risk factor for dementia. As the Mayo Clinic explains, those with a family history of Alzheimer's disease are at greater risk for developing this disease than those with no history, as these genes are passed through each generation. The NINDS adds that those with a family history may not develop any form of dementia and that people without any history still can develop dementia.
Atherosclerosis
A risk factor within a person's control, atherosclerosis causes a buildup of plaque in the arteries. This plaque comes from sources such as fatty deposits and cholesterol, ultimately blocking the flow of blood to the brain; this can result in a stroke. The Mayo Clinic explains atherosclerosis is a significant risk factor for vascular dementia.
Smoking
Not only does smoking increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis, it also increases the risk of both mental decline and dementia, according to the NINDS. Quitting or avoiding those who smoke may reduce your risk of developing dementia.
High Cholesterol
High levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), otherwise known as bad cholesterol, drastically increase a person's risk of developing vascular dementia and are linked to Alzheimer's disease, according to the NINDS. High LDL levels cause plaque buildup in the arteries, contributing to atherosclerosis. To eliminate this risk factor, people should undergo regular cholesterol testing and adhere to their treatment plan if their LDL levels are too high.
