Do you think Alzheimer’s is a normal part of the aging process? It is not. Alzheimer’s is a progressive and fatal brain disease. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time.

While the greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s is increasing age, the disease is not a normal part of aging. Most individuals with the disease are 65 and older. After age 65, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s doubles every five years. After age 85, the risk is about one in three.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. Worldwide, an estimated 55 million people are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. While there are currently no proven methods to prevent cognitive decline or dementia, research has shown that we can take action to reduce our risk of developing it and help maintain or potentially improve overall health.

Growing research suggests that many factors that increase the risk of heart disease and stroke may also increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. There is strong evidence of a connection between mid-life high blood pressure, or hypertension, and later-life dementia. This evidence also shows that controlling blood pressure can have a significant effect on your risk for cognitive decline and possibly dementia.

Keeping diabetes controlled is important. Studies have shown an increase in the risk of cognitive decline and possibly dementia among individuals with diabetes, although diabetes has not, to this point, been proven to cause Alzheimer’s disease. Maintaining a healthy weight is important, too. Researchers have found that midlife obesity may be associated with an increased risk of dementia. We know that a good cholesterol level is good for the heart – and what’s good for the heart is good for the brain.

The best way to combat these health concerns is to know your numbers and keep an eye on them, especially if they change. Talk with your doctor or health care professional to understand what your numbers should be and what they mean for your overall health.

Do you think challenging your brain may help lower your risk of cognitive decline? The answer is yes. Anything that uses your brain in a challenging way is a cognitive activity and can possibly have benefits for your brain.This can be learning new skills, working on a challenging task or engaging in ongoing learning. What new hobbies or skills would you want to learn? What topics would you like to learn about? One of the best ways to stay challenged and keep your brain as resilient as possible is to engage in activities that require learning new things or solving problems.

It’s never too early or too late to incorporate health habits into your lifestyle. People of all ages can benefit from adding in more healthy behaviors.

For more information about Alzheimer’s disease and all other dementias, contact the Alzheimer’s Association. A free 24/7 helpline is available, providing access to many resources. Call 800-272-3900 or visit ALS.org to explore educational programs.

Linda Whitten, a long time resident of Gorham, recently retired from a career in Human Resources. She volunteers as a Program Community Educator for the Alzheimer’s Association, is a member of the Rehabilitation and Survivorship Task force for the Maine Cancer Foundation and serves on the Board of Trustees for Greater Portland Landmarks.