Yep that’s right, new studies have shown that depression can actually DOUBLE the risk of getting Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease in your older age. Although they have not exactly pinpointed the direct connection between depression and dementia, they have brought two hypothesis to the table. The first line of thought is that depression is a risk factor for dementia in older age. The second line of thought is that depression is a consequence or symptom of the Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia.

The test group consisted of 949 men and women. Their depression was monitored throughout the course of 17 years, monitoring their depressive symptoms rather than major depressive episodes. During the 17 year follow up, they found that those who suffered from depression were more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or Dementia in their older age. Out of the 949 men and women, 164 of them developed dementia with 136 of those being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Those who were diagnosed with dementia had higher depression levels than those who were in good health.

So this brings forth the question, “How do I prevent dementia?” Several studies have been done on the subject and one report concludes, “Preventing the recurrence of depression in older adults may prevent or delay the onset of dementia.” Although the studies haven’t exactly pinpointed the root cause, there seems to be a connection between depression and dementia. For tips on how to deal with stress in your elderly age, please read this article “11 Tips For Elderly Dealing With Stress.”

Seniors beware, if you follow these steps you may become healthier than your children. Here are some low cost tips to keep you healthy and prevent illness.

1. Wash hands regularly. This is one of the most important things you can do to prevent spread of germs and illness. This is one of the most important and overlooked steps to preventing illness.
2. Don’t touch your face. Try to avoid touching your face unless there is a real need to do so. If you scratch your nose, rub your eyes, or touch your mouth, there is a greater chance to spread germs around.
3. Refrain from putting things in your mouth. Never put objects like pens, pencils, or your fingers in your mouth. These items may transport germs further into the body.
4. When your throat becomes sore, stop consuming milk products for a couple of days. Milk products may aid the germs to multiply more quickly.
5. Use hand sanitizers. Always carrying a hand sanitizer can become one of your best friends when it comes to preventing illness. Especially in public places, try to use your hand sanitizer often to kill germs that could cause illness.
6. Good Nutrition- Try to keep on a healthy diet. Eating any citrus fruits can aid you in fighting germs and illness. These fruits contain high levels of vitamin C which is essential in keeping the body healthy. Also vegetables like broccoli, red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and cauliflower are also high in vitamin C. Fruits like kiwis, strawberries, and other red berries are also high in vitamin C.

There are many precautions that you can take to avoid potential illness. Apply these steps in your lifestyle to prevent you from getting sick and to keep you active.

I hope this was helpful. Stay healthy my friends.