Brain Health and Dementia Prevention

Protect your brain. Protect your future.

Brain health affects many aspects of life, including how you think, feel, act, and relate to others. Many factors can affect brain health, including age-related changes in the brain, injuries such as stroke, mood disorders, substance use disorder, and diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Myths and Facts About Brain Health

Myth: Dementia happens to everyone with age.
Fact: Dementia is not inevitable.

Myth: Nothing helps.
Fact: Many risk factors are preventable.

Myth: Only older adults should care.
Fact: Brain health starts early.

Dementia vs. Alzheimer's Disease: What Is the Difference?

"Dementia" is a general term used to describe problems with thinking and memory that are severe enough to interfere with a person's daily life. Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia but there are several kinds of dementia.

Dementia is not a normal part of aging. Many risk factors can be prevented or managed.

By the Numbers

  • 3 in 5 Americans will develop a brain disease in their lifetime.
  • An estimated 6.7 million older adults have Alzheimer's disease in the United States. That number is expected to double by 2060.
  • Nearly 45% of all dementia cases may be prevented or delayed by making healthy lifestyle changes.

An individual sitting indoors holds the hands of another individual who is seated across from the

What Affects Your Brain Health?

Many everyday factors play a role in brain health. Some of the biggest risk factors include:

  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Physical inactivity
  • Hearing loss
  • Poor diet
  • Smoking
  • Social isolation
  • Low cognitive stimulation
  • Depression
Two smiling adults embrace one another as they greet each other.

Brain Health and Healthy Aging

As you age, a healthy body is key to a healthy brain and sharp mind. Stay healthy and active to help reduce your risk of stroke, heart disease, memory loss and difficulty with thinking and learning.

Your lifestyle choices affect your brain health. Small daily habits can keep your mind strong and lower your risk of dementia. It’s never too late to start making healthier choices.

  • Get enough sleep. Adults need 7-9 hours per night. Teenagers and children need more.
  • Get regular check-ups. Schedule regular visits with your healthcare provider. Talk about how to control or manage your risk factors.
  • Manage your blood pressure. High blood pressure is one of the top risk factors for dementia.
  • Move more, sit less. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise (or a combination) per week. Even short bursts of activity help.
  • Eat healthy. Increase the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat. Reduce your intake of sodium, added sugar, and saturated and trans fats.
  • Don’t smoke or vape. If you currently smoke or vape, quit.
  • Protect your hearing. Researchers believe having hearing loss may make the brain work harder at the expense of thinking and memory. Monitor volume and get hearing checks.
  • Stay connected. Social engagement boosts brain health.

For in-depth information on brain health strategies, read the Alzheimer’s Association Special Report – Brain Health in American: Understanding and Supporting Lifelong Cognitive Health.

Local Resources and Support

Many of the resources listed offer free or low cost healthcare services.

Blood pressure, hearing and diabetes screenings

Fitness programs

Nutrition/cooking classes

Smoking cessation resources

Senior centers and community groups

For Caregivers

Caring for someone with memory issues can be challenging. Support is available.

  • Caregiver groups
  • Stress management tools
  • Training and community programs
  • Help navigating services

Visit one of these websites for more information:

Get Involved

  • Host an awareness event
  • Share resources with your organization
  • Invite our team for a presentation
  • Volunteer with dementia support organizations
  • Encourage brain healthy habits with the Brain Health Habit Builder

Have Questions or Need Support?

Phone: 504-658-2561
Email: chronic disease@nola.gov
Office Hours: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location(s): City Hall