A recent paper in Nature Communications is the first to identify behaviors that have a large effect on the dementia risk in middle-aged and older people. A cross-sectional survey was used based on observational data from 15-year follow-up of 32,033 cognitively healthy adults in 14 countries across Europe with ages between 50 to 104 years. They considered four major activities, namely smoking, drinking alcohol, socialization, and physical activity to identify relations with dementia.

According to lead author Dr. Mikaela Bloomberg from the University College London (UCL), the results of the research are quite clear that out of all the healthy behaviors that they looked at, it appears that not smoking is vital for preventing cognitive impairment.

Here’s a detailed look at the four habits examined in the study:

Smoking: Cognitive decline was much faster in smokers as compared to non-smokers. Chosen as the most negative behavior influencing cognitive function among all the explored habits.
Alcohol Consumption: Such effects of alcohol consumption which were considered as moderate in the study were mentioned, however more precise effects on cognition were not described in the abstract.
Social Activity: Social integration was discovered to be an attenuating feature regarding the cognitive decline of the population. Cognitive impairment of those tested was found to be slower in those who continued to socialize with friends, family and neighbors as compared to less active socially.
Exercise: This should include exercising, as this was reported as being helpful for cognitive health. Some experts have suggested that it could play a role in improving brain health and even reduce the harm of other components of risk such as smoking.

The study helped to establish the connection between certain changes in people’s everyday habits and the decreased likelihood of developing dementia. Indeed, for those who are concerned with dementia chances, the early diagnosis is essential. The NHS recommends that anyone who experiences pointers to dementia should arrange to see a GP as soon as possible for an evaluation and direction. Thus, prompt assistance and preparation for individuals with ASD and their families improve the prognosis since intervention must occur as early as possible in the development of the disorder.

Knowing the consequences of lifestyle factors on mental health helps to give guidelines to those who want to avoid dementia. Thus, by avoiding smoking and taking the proper approach to consumption of alcoholic beverages, social contacts, and exercising, people may protect their brain and have no significant age-related issues with thinking.

Be constantly educated and be conscious of brain health—possibly there are habits that they engage in today that will affect their brains in the future.