Prevention

Mild cognitive impairment can't always be prevented. But research has found some environmental factors that may affect the risk of developing the condition. Studies show that these steps may help prevent cognitive impairment:

• Avoid excessive alcohol use.
• Limit exposure to air pollution.
• Reduce your risk of head injury.
• Don't smoke.
• Manage health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and depression.
• Practice good sleep hygiene and manage sleep disturbances.
• Eat a nutrient-rich diet that has plenty of fruits and vegetables and is low in saturated fats.
• Engage socially with others.
• Exercise regularly at a moderate to vigorous intensity.
• Wear a hearing aid if you have hearing loss.
• Stimulate your mind with puzzles, games and memory training.