Can We Prevent Alzheimer’s? What Science Says About Risk and Resilience

Written by Edward Wickstead, AFHEA, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Pharmacology, Midwestern University College of Graduate Studies

Approximately 11% of Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease, which is now the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Nearly one‑third of older adults in the U.S. die with some form of dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. Despite being first described more than a century ago, there is still no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, making it one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time.

The greatest risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s disease is age. Genetics also play a role, particularly variants of the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene, with the APOE4 variant associated with an increased risk of disease. While a small number of cases are caused by inherited genetic mutations, approximately 90–95% of Alzheimer’s cases are sporadic. These arise from a complex interaction of genetic susceptibility, environmental exposures, and lifestyle factors rather than from a single inherited mutation. Importantly, this means there is real potential to reduce risk through lifestyle choices, offering hope for prevention and healthier aging.

Many modifiable risk factors are associated with dementia, including poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. Less widely known contributors to dementia risk include head injury, limited access to education, social isolation, and depression — factors that, if addressed, may improve long‑term brain health.

The world’s so‑called “Blue Zones”— regions where people consistently live longer and experience lower rates of chronic disease, including dementia — were identified in the early 2000’s. These regions include Okinawa (Japan), Sardinia (Italy), Nicoya (Costa Rica), Ikaria (Greece), and Loma Linda (California). There are shared traits among these populations, often referred to as the “Power 9,” some of which are strong social connections, lifelong physical activity, plant‑forward diets, and a meaningful sense of purpose.

Finally, lifelong learning and cognitive engagement also play an important role. Education at any stage of life—particularly bilingualism—has been associated with reduced dementia risk, even when a second language is learned during adulthood. Everyday cognitive enrichment, such as reading, learning a musical instrument, solving puzzles, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities that support brain health over time can also aid memory and brain health.

_{This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for questions about a medical or health condition.}