Key 6: Sleep Enough
6. Sleep Enough
Getting enough good quality sleep is important for your overall health but is also a key to preventing dementia! Regularly sleeping for 6 or fewer hours during mid-to-late life (ages 50-70), compared to the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep, can increase your risk of developing dementia by 30%. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule (typically going to bed before midnight), having dinner at least 3 hours before bedtime, and sleeping in a cool, dark room can all help increase the quality of sleep.