The dementia epidemic has been gaining attention in recent years as America’s population ages. A new tool has been developed to gauge and track brain health, with a 0-21 point scale called the “brain care score.” According to Dr. Jonathan Rosand, co-founder of the McCance Center for Brain Health, we can substantially reduce our risk of dementia through lifestyle choices.
The quiz assesses brain health by awarding points for various lifestyle habits. A current smoker earns zero points, while a non-smoker who quit more than a year ago scores 3 points. The test is designed to be quick and easy, taking about five minutes to complete.
Research has shown that each five-point increase in the McCance brain care score is associated with a lower risk of late-life depression and dementia. However, Dr. Kevin Sheth notes that achieving a perfect score is unlikely. Instead, the goal is to strive for the best possible score and monitor progress over time.
While the quiz provides an interesting framework for assessing brain health, some questions have been criticized as unrealistic. The recommendation to eat 4.5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day may be challenging for many individuals. Additionally, the quiz’s focus on social connections might overlook other factors that contribute to successful brain care.
The authors raise valid concerns about the limitations of the quiz and suggest that alternative lifestyle choices, such as marijuana use, might also have value in reducing dementia risk. Despite these criticisms, the McCance brain care score quiz offers a useful tool for assessing brain health and encouraging individuals to make positive lifestyle changes.
Source: https://pagosadailypost.com/2024/12/04/ready-fire-aim-my-excellent-brain-care-score