Control Your Alzheimer’s Risk Factors

Your brain and heart are more connected than you might think.

As you age, protecting your brain health becomes even more important. But did you know your heart health plays a big role in keeping your brain sharp? When your heart and blood vessels are healthy, your brain gets the steady flow of oxygen-rich blood it needs to function well. If that flow is blocked or reduced, your risk for memory problems, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can go up..

The good news? Many risk factors for heart and brain health are within your control. 

How heart health affects brain health

Cardiovascular health refers to how well your heart and blood vessels are working. These vessels carry oxygen-rich blood to your brain, which helps it function properly. When this system is weakened—by high blood pressure, clogged arteries or heart disease—your brain may not get enough oxygen. 

Over time, this can cause: 

• Memory loss 
• Mood changes 
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions 
• A higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease or vascular dementia 
• Increased chances of stroke or mini-stroke (TIA) 

Caring for your heart can help protect your brain and support healthy aging.  

Common risk factors to watch

Some risk factors for heart and brain issues include: 

• High blood pressure 
• High cholesterol 
• Tobacco use 
• Diabetes 
• Lack of physical activity 
• Unhealthy diet 

These factors don’t just affect your heart - they also raise your risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

You can take control 

Small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference. Many of the most common risk factors can be improved or managed over time. For example: 

• Quit tobacco. This is one of the most effective ways to protect your brain and heart. If you need support, Banner Health offers personalized tobacco cessation plans to help you quit for good. 
• Eat a heart-healthy diet. Choose more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and healthy fats. 
• Get active. Try walking, stretching or light exercise most days of the week. 
• Manage chronic conditions. Work with your doctor to control blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. 

Know Your Numbers

Knowing your health numbers is a great first step. These five key indicators can help you understand your heart and brain health: 

• Total cholesterol 
• HDL (good) cholesterol 
• Blood pressure 
• Blood sugar 
• Body mass index (BMI) 

Your doctor may also consider your waist circumference, especially if you have more muscle mass that affects your BMI. 

When you know your numbers, you can work with your provider to improve them - and lower your Alzheimer’s risk.  

How to get started

1. Talk to your doctor

Schedule a checkup with your primary care provider. They can run simple tests and explain what your numbers mean. They’ll also help you build a care plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.

2. Set realistic goals

Start with small, manageable goals like:

• Walking 30 minutes a day, five days a week
• Eating one extra serving of vegetables each day
• Cutting back on sugary drinks or snacks

These simple changes can help you feel better and improve your long-term health.

3. Track your progress

Write down your goals and monitor how you feel each week. You may notice:

• More energy
• Better sleep
• Looser-fitting clothes
• Improved mood and focus

As your numbers improve, your doctor can help you set new goals to stay on track.

We're here to help

At Banner Health, we’re committed to helping you live well as you age. From heart screenings and nutrition support to tobacco cessation and chronic disease management, our team is here for you.

Take the first step today

Schedule an appointment with a Banner Health primary care provider to check your numbers and take charge of your brain and heart health.