August 2026
Above: Patient Anne Hill, pictured left, during a checkup with nurse practitioner Mary Beth Kuebrich.
One in nine Americans over age 65 is living with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. While the risk increases with age, Providence experts say there are meaningful steps people can take to support brain health and potentially reduce their risk.
For many families, concerns about memory loss and cognitive decline can feel overwhelming. The good news is that healthy habits and regular preventive care can make a difference.
Healthy habits help protect the brain
Providence geriatrician Laura Perry, M.D., encourages adults to start with routine health care and preventive screenings.
Regular checkups with a primary care provider can help monitor important health factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes, all of which play a role in brain health.
“All of those things we typically think of being good for your heart, are also good for your brain,” Dr. Perry tells KATU's AM Northwest.
Research continues to show a strong connection between cardiovascular health and cognitive health. Taking steps to manage chronic conditions may help support brain function and overall well-being as people age.
Watch the full news segment on YouTube.
Five ways to support lifelong brain health
The likelihood of developing dementia increases with age. By age 85, one in three people in the United States has some form of dementia.
Mary Beth Kuebrich, a nurse practitioner who specializes in dementia care, encourages adults of all ages to build habits that support both physical and cognitive health.
She recommends five key activities:
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Stay socially connected
- Improve cardiovascular health
- Keep your brain active through learning and engaging activities
These everyday choices can help people maintain independence, stay connected with loved ones and continue doing the things that matter most to them.
Watch the full news segment on YouTube.
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