Alzheimer's Risk Reduction

Alzheimer’s disease is a complex disorder for which there is currently no known prevention or cure. However, research suggests that lifestyle choices can support healthy brain aging and reduce Alzheimer’s disease risk. Healthy habits, like exercising and eating a nutrient-rich diet, can improve and maintain overall health.

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Who Is More at Risk for Alzheimer's?

Age is the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, however studies show that some people could be at higher risk for Alzheimer's.

Women

Women are disproportionately affected by the disease, comprising approximately two-thirds of Alzheimer’s patients themselves and also serving as the majority of caregivers for people living with the disease.

African Americans & Hispanics

African Americans and Hispanics with certain psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety, apathy/indifference, and irritability have a higher risk of developing cognitive impairment, often a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

People With Other Medical Conditions

Other medical conditions, some treatable such as depression, sleep disturbances like apnea, and traumatic brain injury have been shown to influence the risk of cognitive decline.

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Nutrition & Lifestyle for Alzheimer's

Some research has generated hope that one day it might be possible to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, delay its symptoms, or even prevent it from occurring at all. Although research supports the benefit of some interventions—such as physical activity and cardiovascular risk reduction—nothing at this time has definitively been shown to prevent Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.

Healthy Lifestyle Actions You Can Take Right Now

  • Eat a varied, nutritious, and low-glycemic diet.
  • Get regular exercise and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Keep your mind active.
  • Get enough good quality sleep, as recommended for your age group.
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More Ways to Reduce Alzheimer's Risk

Can Non-Drug Interventions Really Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer’s?

Watch this episode of Zoom in on Dementia and Alzheimer’s to learn more about non-drug-related risk reduction options.

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Resources

Recent Resources & Information

Browse expert resources to better understand how to reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer's.
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Understanding Your APOE Status: Genetics and Alzheimer's Risk

In this episode, Dr. Eric M. Reiman explains what genetic testing can—and cannot—tell you about Alzheimer's.
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Expert Information

Expanding the Alzheimer's Treatment Landscape: A 2026 Forecast

Learn about the treatments landscape for Alzheimer’s in 2026 and beyond.
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Leqembi and Kisunla: Your Questions Answered

In this episode, a leading neurologist answers your most common questions about what Leqembi and Kisunla can realistically do, including effectiveness, safety, eligibility, infusion logistics, cost, and access.
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Expert Information

Alzheimer's Risk Reduction: Nutrition & Lifestyle

There are healthy actions people can take to improve and maintain health, no matter what conditions they may be facing.
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The AHEAD Study: Can Alzheimer's Be Prevented or Slowed Before Symptoms Begin?

Join Dr. Joshua Grill as he shares details about the AHEAD Study.
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The Next Generation of Alzheimer's Treatments

Join behavioral neurologist Dr. Marwan Sabbagh for an in-depth discussion about emerging Alzheimer’s therapeutics now in late-stage clinical development.
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Why Some Brains Stay Sharp With Age

Learn how cognitive reserve can make some people more resistant to memory decline.
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Downloadable Resource

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease affects people’s memories, but it involves far more than simple forgetfulness. Learn more about this devastating disease.
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Downloadable Resource

FDA-Approved Alzheimer’s Therapies Infographic

Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, certain treatments can help control or delay its symptoms, particularly in the early stages of the disease. Talk to your physician to see if these medications are right for you.