Simple daily habits, like taking a short nap and staying active, could reduce your risk of dementia, according to artificial intelligence (AI) expert and University of Waterloo professor Mohamed Elmasry.
More than 5 million Americans over the age of 65 live with dementia, according to 2014 data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dementia comes in different forms—the most common form is Alzheimer's disease—and is characterized by an impaired ability to remember, think and make decisions.
Scientists believe that Alzheimer's is caused by the abnormal buildup of proteins in and around our brain cells, although exactly what triggers this buildup is still unclear. But what we do know is that our risk of developing Alzheimer's is dependent on a range of genetic and environmental factors.
In his new upcoming book, iMind: Artificial and Real Intelligence, Elmasry writes that our increasing reliance on AI could be raising our risk of developing dementia and other forms of cognitive decline.
Just like our muscles, our memory needs regular exercise and is thought to obey a "use it or lose it" principle.
"Humans can intentionally develop and test their memories by playing 'brain games,' or performing daily brain exercises," Elmasry writes.
By relying on Google and other search engines, Elmasry says that we are neglecting this brain training and allowing AI to replace what he describes as "real intelligence."
As well as exercising our brains, it is important we give them regular breaks. Increasingly, studies have shown that taking regular, short daytime naps improves our performance in cognitive tests, particularly those associated with memory. Elmasry describes naps as "resets" to refresh our memories and other brain and body functions.
Elmasry also recommends integrating a day of true rest into your weekly schedule, staying active, adopting a healthy diet and minimizing alcohol consumption. Chronic stress has also been associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline.
Elmasry says he was inspired to write iMind: Artificial and Real Intelligence after his brother-in-law died from Alzheimer's disease, as well as his mother who fell victim to other forms of dementia.
"Your brain-mind is the highest-value asset you have, or will ever have. Increase its potential and longevity by caring for it early in life, keeping it and your body healthy so it can continue to develop," he writes.
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