There is no way to prevent dementia from occurring, but there are some things you can do to lower your risk. Staying both physically and mentally fit is the best way to reduce your risk of dementia. Physical health improves circulation to the brain and lowers the risk of strokes and neuro-vascular disease. Mental exercise and lifelong learning seem to decrease the risk of dementia. Some studies have shown that people, especially older adults, who often engage in mentally stimulating activities are as much as 50% less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, the leading cause of dementia.