Dementia is a growing problem in the United States, particularly in Virginia. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, last year in Virginia there were 150,000 individuals age 65 and older affected by Alzheimer’s and that number is projected to increase to 190,000 by 2025.

Vickie Armstrong, DNP, Riverside Neurology Spe- cialists of Hampton, said that there are key risk factors for developing Alzheimer’s and ways to prevent decline in memory and cognitive ability.

Armstrong said that those with a family history of Alzheimer’s and dementia have a stronger chance of developing these problems later in life. Other medical issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol, when not kept in check, have shown to be risk factors for Alzheimer’s. Tobacco use, alcohol abuse and a sedentary lifestyle can also put people at risk for developing memory and cognitive issues.

According to Armstrong, there are ways people can help prevent the onset of cognitive-related issues....