Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk with Lower Blood Pressure: Report

You’ve likely heard that living longer is a double-edged sword: we get more time with loved ones, but we also face greater risks of age-related conditions. According to the Alzheimer’s Disease International 2023 World Alzheimer Report, over 150 million people globally are expected to live with dementia by 2050.

Age is the leading risk factor, but genetics can also increase your chances of developing Alzheimer’s or other forms of memory loss. 

Unfortunately, longevity means more of us will need long-term care. Cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s and dementia, is one of the top reasons people require assistance with everyday activities. And it’s not just older adults—early-onset dementia can strike people in their 40s or 50s, making planning even more important. 

The good news? Some lifestyle changes have been proven to lower dementia risk. A recent study published in JAMA Neurology found that managing high blood pressure significantly reduces the likelihood of cognitive decline, giving you more control over your brain health. You can read more about these findings in TIME’s coverage.  

Yet even with healthy habits, none of us can guarantee we’ll avoid needing long-term care. Illness, accidents, or simply aging can leave you needing help with bathing, dressing, or supervision due to memory loss.  

Plan Now for Aging 

It’s essential to understand that health insurance, Medicare, and Medicare Supplements—such as Medicare Advantage plans—only cover limited skilled care, typically up to 100 days, and do not pay for custodial care, which is what most of us will eventually require. 

Without a plan, you or your family must pay for these costs out of pocket. According to the LTC News Cost of Care Calculator, median monthly costs in the U.S. for long-term care range from $5,000 to over $15,000, depending on care setting and location. These expenses can quickly drain savings and devastate retirement plans.  

Family caregiving isn’t a simple solution, either. Providing care is physically, emotionally, and financially challenging—and can disrupt your loved ones’ careers, relationships, and health. Affordable Long-Term Care Insurance policies, especially if purchased in your 40s or 50s, can shield your retirement accounts and preserve your spouse’s lifestyle. These policies can also help protect assets for inheritance if leaving a legacy matters to you. While premiums are higher if you wait until after age 65, excellent options can still be available if you’re in good health.  

Experts strongly recommend working with a certified Long-Term Care Insurance specialist who understands underwriting, policy design, and the federal/state Partnership Program—and who represents multiple top-rated insurers. They will provide you with accurate quotes from all the top-rated insurance companies that offer long-term care solutions. 

Financial advisors or local insurance agents often lack this expertise, and mistakes can leave you underinsured or paying too much. 

Key points:

• Dementia risk rises sharply with age; 150 million people globally may be affected by 2050.
• Healthy habits like controlling blood pressure can lower dementia risk, but cannot guarantee you won’t need care.
• Medicare covers only limited skilled care; most long-term care costs for custodial support come out of your pocket.
• Planning early with Long-Term Care Insurance can protect savings and ease your family’s burden.