Could we prevent dementia? A new trial may point the way.

In a recent trial conducted in Latin America, participants aged 60 to 77 were given a comprehensive lifestyle intervention aimed at preventing cognitive decline. The trial, known as LatAm-FINGERS, involved 1,200 participants and focused on risk factors such as smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and social isolation. The intervention included exercise programs, brain training, personalized meal plans, and social activities.

While the improvement in cognitive skills was relatively small, with a statistical measure called a z-score of just 0.04 points, experts expressed optimism about the potential impact of such interventions on a larger scale. The Lancet Commission, which regularly updates guidelines on dementia prevention, identified 14 risk factors contributing to 45% of dementia cases.

Professor Miia Kivipelto, who led the original FINGER study, emphasized the importance of tailoring interventions to the specific risks faced by participants, as trials involving highly educated individuals yielded smaller improvements. Subsequent trials, including a U.S.-based study called POINTER, have shown even smaller effects, raising questions about the broader applicability of these interventions in preventing dementia.