Jenny Jacobs, a Kentucky health specialist and former caregiver, said her new venture Defying Dementia aims to help patients and families after her father died of dementia and Parkinson's disease in May 2024.
Nearly half of dementia cases can be prevented, Jacobs said, arguing that proactive brain-health measures can reduce risk even as a new case is diagnosed every 3 seconds worldwide.
Her program offers concierge support across Kentucky and promotes five core habits: a Mediterranean-style diet, regular exercise, better sleep, social connection and cognitive training such as dual-task exercises.
Jacobs said the effort also focuses on structured lifestyle changes that may help reverse early-stage decline and on personalized brain-maintenance plans for patients and caregivers.
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Kentucky’s Statewide Fight Against Dementia: Prevention, Research, and Community Support for Reducing 45% of Cases
Overview
Kentucky has launched the 'Defying Dementia' initiative to address the urgent rise in dementia cases, with 80,500 seniors already diagnosed in the state and global cases expected to triple by 2050. Built on strong scientific evidence, the program highlights that nearly 45% of dementia cases can be prevented or delayed through targeted lifestyle changes. By encouraging healthy habits and proactive interventions, Kentucky aims to reduce memory loss and slow disease progression. This comprehensive approach responds to the growing need for prevention and care, positioning the state as a leader in tackling the dementia 'tsunami' facing communities worldwide.