Eckart von Hirschhausen: How to protect your brain from dementia!

Eckart von Hirschhausen: How to protect your brain from dementia!

Eckart von Hirschhausen, known to most as a funny doctor and scientist, has recently shown a serious side of himself. The 58-year-old said in an interview that he was afraid of dementia, a concern that is affecting more and more people in our society. He has already seen several people in his family suffering from this disease. “I often wonder if forgetfulness is the beginning of dementia,” he admits. These considerations are more relevant than ever, because the number of dementia cases is constantly increasing in Germany. On Monday, at 8:15 p.m., the first will show the documentary “Hirschhausen and the Great Forgetting,” which not only discusses the disease itself, but also how it can be effectively prevented. North24 reports that Hirschhausen criticizes the common cliché that nothing can be done about brain deterioration.

The mechanisms of forgetting

The doctor and entertainer counters: “Everything that is good for the heart is also good for the brain.” Anyone who cares about their health should not only pay attention to their physical fitness, but also stay mentally active. In this context, risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol deserve special attention - they are not only responsible for heart attacks, but also for dementia. A healthy lifestyle, especially between the ages of 40 and 60 and during childhood, is crucial for brain health.

Research results and recommendations

The topic of dementia prevention is also highly relevant in the scientific literature. A recent study by the Lancet Commission brings some important points to the table. Research suggests promoting public health programs that particularly target high-risk groups. The measures include access to high-quality education for children, early detection and treatment of hearing and vision loss, and, in addition to physical activity, protection against head injuries. Top Prevention highlights the need to create age-friendly communities to avoid social isolation – another connection Hirschhausen emphasizes.

Clarification and practical tips

The German Alzheimer Society (DAlzG) has developed an extensive educational program in collaboration with the Federal Institute for Public Health. This aims to inform multipliers, such as employees in senior centers and pharmacists, about the risk factors for dementia and how to avoid them. The event “Stay mentally fit – prevent dementia with 10 measures” offers helpful tips for prevention and information about how the brain works. Anyone interested in these materials can contact the DAlzG directly. Further information is also available on the “Aging Healthily & Actively” website. German Alzheimer's has provided extensive resources in this regard.

In an age in which the population is aging, it seems both wise and necessary to address these issues. Because the best actions are often the ones we can take when we’re young. Let's work together to ensure that our seniors not only live longer, but also stay mentally fit!