Dementia affects around a million people across the UK, and that figure is expected to rise over the coming years as the population of the country continues to age.

It can be a traumatic and confusing time for those living with the condition, but there are ways in which you can limit the risk of developing dementia as you get older.

Residential dementia care often utilises such ways to help reduce the impact the condition has on those struggling with it, with exercises coming in all manner of forms. However, they can also play a small part in being preventative. So, if you are worried about developing dementia, perhaps if it runs in the family, here are five ways in which you can help reduce the risk.

  • Cognitive Training Games

Doing daily brain training exercises and games is a quick and easy way to challenge your cognitive function and improve it in the process. Apps such as Elevate, Lumosity, and sudoku games can stimulate the likes of memory, attention, concentration and problem-solving skills, with the idea with many of these apps being that you see improvement over time.

Regularly using these apps can help build cognitive resilience and allow the brain to function optimally.

  • Learning A New Skill

Having a constant thirst for learning a new skill can be hugely beneficial to our brains as it promotes neuroplasticity.

It creates new neural pathways in the brain, contributing to our overall cognitive reserve, which is scientifically linked to lowering the risk of dementia. What's more, it increases confidence and self-worth, important factors in our mental health.

  • Physical Exercise For Cognitive Well-Being

It isn't just brain games and using your brain that can improve our cognitive well-being and reduce the risks of dementia; physical exercise can, too.

By regularly partaking in jogging, swimming, walking or any other form of exercise, you're increasing the blood flow to your brain and promoting the growth of new neurons.

This has been proven to reduce the risk of dementia, with around two hours of exercise per week aiding with this.

  • Social Engagement And Mental Stimulation

Social engagement plays a key part in an active mind, building resilience and helping maintain mental stimulation and a healthy brain.

That could be as simple as regularly engaging in meaningful conversations, enjoying activities, being part of a club, or any other form of regular social engagement.

  • Mindful Meditation And Relaxation Techniques

Finally, reducing stress and increasing mindfulness is instrumental in improved cognitive functioning. Chronic stress has deep links with dementia, so reducing your stress levels and managing it more effectively is a good way of reducing your risk of the condition.

Mindfulness practices are great for this and can become a really valued part of your daily routine. They will aid with clear thinking and focus, as well as reduce the anxieties going on in your life. Doing this will boost your cognitive functioning later in life and improve your mental and emotional well-being for as long as you are doing it.