Memory impairment is a common distinctive sign of the aging process. Older people often complain of having trouble to retain irrelevant information. However, there are other memory problems that it is important to pay attention because they can be signs of mild cognitive impairment or dementia, a problem that affects both those who suffer from it and their close environment.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dementia is a syndrome in which there is deterioration in cognitive function beyond what might be expected from the usual consequences of biological ageing. Although dementia mainly affects older people, it is not an inevitable consequence of ageing.
Currently more than 55 million people live with dementia worldwide, and there are nearly 10 million new cases every year.
Although there is no cure, prevention is essential to control the cognitive impairment. A healthy diet, physical exercise and adequate rest are the three essential bases to enjoy a good functioning of the organism and they are behaviors that help to reduce risk factors. Taking care of ourselves through healthy lifestyle habits is key to minimize the risk of certain diseases, such as it is the case of memory problems, some of which can be prevented or slowed down thanks to aspects as basic as aboved indicated.