Is Lifestyle Connected to Dementia Risk?

Many people are concerned about their risk of suffering from some cognitive loss as they get older. The fact is you should be concerned. The Alzheimer's Association reports than one in three seniors will die with some type of dementia. Alzheimer's kills more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. An estimated 5.8 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's dementia in 2020. Eighty percent are age 75 or older. One in 10 people age 65 has dementia.

This is not just a problem in the United States. In the UK, a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or vascular dementia doubles roughly every five years once they reach age 65. It is estimated that dementia affects one in 14 people over 65 and one in six over 80. 

In Canada, one in 20 Canadians over age 65 has Alzheimer's disease. After 65, the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease doubles approximately every five years, with one in four Canadians over 85 having Alzheimer's disease.

Some Dementia Might Be Prevented

Yes, it is a big concern. Now researchers report that 40% of dementia cases might be prevented or, at least, delayed by modifications of lifestyle. The publication The Lancet, identified 12 risk factors that researchers reported at the 2020 virtual Alzheimer's Association International Conference.

They added three new items to the lifestyle risk list -- excessive alcohol intake and head injury in mid-life, and exposure to air pollution in later life. Read more by clicking here. 

No matter how well you take care of yourself, longevity itself becomes a dementia risk. Preparing your family and finances is critical for an overall retirement plan. However, it would be best if you started planning for aging's financial costs and burdens when you still enjoy reasonably good health.

LTC Insurance Can Help – But is Medically Underwritten

Affordable Long-Term Care Insurance is medically underwritten. These policies will give you access to your choice of quality care, including home care. LTC Insurance will also pay for memory care and the supervision you may need when you have Alzheimer's or dementia. 

Of course, people need long-term care services for other reasons; due to an illness, accident, or the consequences of aging. Use the resources of LTC NEWS to help you find the right information to make informed planning decisions. 

The cost of extended care is expensive and adversely impact income and savings. But, long-term care is more than just a cash flow issue – it is a family issue. Safeguard your assets and reduce family stress. Experts say to start planning before you retire, ideally in your 40s or 50s.

LTC NEWS Cost of Care Calculator

Find the current and future cost of long-term care services where you live by using the LTC NEWS Cost of Care Calculator by clicking here.

Be sure to seek the assistance of a qualified and experienced Long-Term Care Insurance specialist. Unlike financial advisors or general insurance agents, specialists are specially trained and work with the major insurance companies, not just one or two. Specialists understand policy design, underwriting, and special features like the partnership program and shared spousal benefits.

Find a trusted and experienced specialist by clicking here.

Just don't forget to start planning for long-term health care now so you can enjoy a stress-free and successful future retirement.