Does being single increase risk of dementia?

Some evidence suggests remaining socially active may reduce your risk of dementia and living with someone is certainly a good way of increasing social interaction. Whether its reaching for the vacuum cleaner or going for long romantic walks, lifestyle factors associated with being married may also help.

However, singletons shouldn't worry - there are many other ways to reduce your risk of dementia that don't involve popping the question. The best evidence is around eating a Mediterranean diet, exercising regularly and not smoking.

Susanne Sorensen    
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society

ENDS

Reference:
Krister Håkansson.  Unmarried life: Paving the way for dementia?

Notes to editors

About ICAD:
The International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease (ICAD) runs from Sunday, 26 July 2008 until Wednesday 30 July 2008. Cutting edge research into dementia will be presented across the conference.

About dementia:

• 1 in 3 people over 65 will end their lives with a form of dementia.
• 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia.  This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051. 1 in 6 people over 80 have dementia.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and those who care for them. The Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
•  As a charity, Alzheimer's Society depends on the generosity of the public to help it care, research and campaign for people with dementia. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk.  
• Alzheimer's Society Dementia Helpline number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk

For further information olease call 0207 423 3595 or 07802688774.