Dementia: Popular activity done for an excessively long period increases your risk

Dementia refers to a cluster of symptoms associated with brain decline. The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. It is commonly viewed as an inevitable result of the ageing process (even though it isn’t), however, certain foods and activities could be increasing your risk.

The most common signs of dementia are memory loss and the loss of practical abilities.

These symptoms can often lead to withdrawal form work or social activities.

A person may also become very passive, sitting in front of the television for hours, sleeping more than usual, or appear to lose interest in hobbies.

Researchers at University College London say excessive viewing could lead to memory loss and contribute to the development of dementia.

They have discovered that people over 50 who watch more than 3.5 hours of TV a day are more at risk of losing their memory.

Known as digital dementia, it can include the overuse of technology which can lead to a break down in cognitive abilities among children and teens who are exposed to too much screen time.

Am I at risk?

There are a number of risk factors for dementia you cannot change but increasing evidence points to ways you can influence the risk.

One modifiable risk factor is cardiovascular disease (CVD) – a disease that damages the heart or makes it harder for blood to circulate around the body.

“CVD can greatly increase a person’s risk of developing dementia,” warns the Alzheimer’s Society (AS).