Managing Alzheimer's Risk Factors: What You Can Control.

While the exact causes of Alzheimer's disease are still unknown, scientists believe that a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors contribute to its development. While some risk factors, such as age and family history, cannot be changed, others, such as heart health, alcohol use, and obesity, can be modified through lifestyle changes. A recent study found that more than one-third of all Alzheimer's cases could be prevented by addressing these and other contributing lifestyle issues. Researchers recommend that people exercise more, stop smoking, become more socially involved, reduce their weight, and manage their depression to potentially delay or even stop memory loss.