12/11/23: Dr. Mitch Clionsky, Clinical Neurologist with Clionsky Neuro Systems | Dementia Prevention: The Real Story | Aging Today

·1 hr 25 min·5 clips

Dr. Mitch Clionsky explains how up to 60% of dementia cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes.

The episode begins with host Mark Turnbull introducing Dr. Mitch Clionsky, a clinical neuropsychologist with decades of experience. Dr. Clionsky shares his personal journey into the field, including his mother's dementia diagnosis, which motivated his work. He co-authored the book 'Dementia Prevention' with his wife, Dr. Emily Clionsky, after extensive research reviewed by Johns Hopkins University Press. The core message is that dementia is not inevitable; 40-60% of cases can be prevented by addressing modifiable risk factors. Dr. Clionsky explains dementia as an umbrella term for brain diseases like Alzheimer's and vascular dementia, emphasizing it's a neurological condition, not a mental defect. He critiques the focus on pharmaceutical solutions, noting that current drugs only slow decline without improving cognition. Key prevention strategies include managing blood pressure, diabetes, and alcohol intake, with specific guidelines on safe drinking levels. Sleep apnea is highlighted as a critical, often undiagnosed risk, affecting oxygen flow to the brain. Dr. Clionsky discusses the importance of physical activity, citing studies that show walking 3,800 to 9,300 steps daily reduces dementia risk. Social connectedness and hearing loss are also addressed as factors. The conversation shifts to aging and cognition, with Dr. Clionsky analyzing political figures like Joe Biden, arguing that appearance can be misleading and advocating for cognitive testing in high-stakes roles. He provides practical advice for families during holidays, suggesting a 'buddy system' to support loved ones with dementia. The episode concludes with Dr. Clionsky encouraging listeners to become 'prevention warriors' and take proactive steps for brain health.

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