Alzheimer’s disease itself cannot be prevented, but there are steps people can take in order to reduce memory loss and dementia when it comes to the development of the disease. Also, some scientists speculate that even though it cannot be completely prevented, there are some things people can do in order to reduce their risk of developing the disease.

Beginning Before the Disease

The key to reducing a person’s chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease, some doctors say, is to start the process early. In fact, people with a high risk of developing the disease should begin the process around age 40. Often, the disease begins its development up to 30 years before the first symptoms appear at the average onset age of 67. This is also true with other common disorders like diabetes and hypertension. Even if the person does not begin at 40, it is not too late to begin making changes at any point in a person’s life.

Know the Risks

Many doctors recommend patients to take a simple blood test to determine their risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. This tests for a particular gene that if present could mean up to a two and a half times greater risk of developing the disease. Patients who have determined they are of high risk can begin a regimen of vitamins or minerals in addition to leading a healthy lifestyle.

Research has shown that vitamins C and E do help to reduce the risk of memory impairment as people age by about 30 percent. The vitamins have also been shown to reduce the chance of developing the disease by approximately 70 percent. When taking vitamins it is important to consult your doctor, as vitamins can carry risks, too. Vitamin E, for example, when taken above 1000 units per day, can increase the risk of bleeding and suppress the immune system.

Anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen have also been shown to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. These medications can lower the risk by as much as 50 to 75 percent but not by decreasing inflammation. Instead, medicines like ibuprofen block the production of beta-amyloid, which is one of the main causes of Alzheimer’s disease.