Warding-Off Symptoms of Dementia Involves Keeping the Body, Mind 'Fit'

Keeping physically fit can help ward-off a host of health conditions. However, keeping the mind "fit" is equally as important, particularly for older individuals.

A recent study presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Washington, D.C., found that in order to prevent or slow this form of dementia, patients have to stay active in all aspects of their life.

A two-year randomized study from a Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study found that incorporating a healthy diet, exercise and friendships into participants' lives could help stave off symptoms of mental decline.

Throughout the study period, more than 1,200 individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease were put into one of two groups; a control group that received typical medical advice or a group that received extensive dietary guidance, routine exercise regimens and cognitive and social training, according to Health Day. 

Findings revealed that the lifestyle group fared much better than those in the control group.

Some of the treatments used with participants in the lifestyle group included nutritional counseling on dietary habits, weight training one to two times a week, along with cardiovascular training two to four times a week. Throughout the study for lifestyle participants, various cognitive training exercises were also provided to keep knowledge and memory strong. 

Researchers note though there is no cure for Alzheimer's, prevention is certainly a good place to start. 

Estimates from the Alzheimer's Association show that about 5.2 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease; a number that is expected to escalate rapidly in the coming years as the baby boom generation ages.