Q:

Is there anything that can be done to prevent Alzheimer's disease or decrease my risk of getting it?

A:

Yes. Numerous studies suggest that eating a healthy diet, participating in regular physical activity and maintaining healthy blood pressure, cholesterol and weight levels may all contribute to a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers are studying the role of genetics in the development of Alzheimer's, but most agree there are a handful of risk factors—whether individually or in combination—that could play a role in acquiring the disease. What's known for certain is the older you get, the greater the risk for acquiring Alzheimer's.