Does coffee reduce the risk of dementia?

Dementia is one of the most challenging diseases for both the individual and society. Since there is currently no cure, research is increasingly focused on preventive measures. A question that is frequently discussed is whether coffee, one of the world’s most consumed beverages, can have a protective effect against dementia.

In recent years, several studies have suggested that coffee consumption may be linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia. But how strong is the connection? And what mechanisms could be behind it?

The link between coffee and dementia

Several epidemiological studies have investigated how coffee consumption affects the risk of developing dementia. Although the results vary, the overwhelming majority of the research suggests that moderate coffee consumption may have a positive effect.

• A European meta-analysis found that individuals who drank between 3 and 5 cups of coffee per day had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease than those who drank less or no coffee at all.
• A long-term American study observed that older adults who consumed caffeine regularly exhibited slower cognitive decline over time.
• A Swedish study , where participants were followed for several decades, showed that coffee drinkers in middle age had a significantly reduced risk of dementia later in life.

However, it is important to remember that these studies show an association, but not a causation. That is, coffee may be one of several factors that contribute to a reduced risk of dementia, but this does not necessarily mean that coffee alone prevents the disease.

Possible mechanisms behind the protective effect

Researchers have identified several possible ways in which coffee may affect the brain and reduce the risk of dementia:

Reduced inflammation and oxidative stress

One of the main factors behind neurodegenerative diseases is chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. Coffee contains high levels of antioxidants, which can help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammatory processes that accelerate brain aging.

Impact on cerebral blood circulation

A well-functioning blood supply is crucial for the brain to maintain its cognitive capacity. Caffeine has been shown to improve blood flow to the brain, which may be a protective factor, especially in vascular dementia caused by poor circulation.

Blocking adenosine and stimulating neurotransmitters

Caffeine acts as an antagonist to the neurotransmitter adenosine, which means it can counteract fatigue and improve brain alertness and cognitive function. In addition, caffeine has a positive effect on dopamine and acetylcholine – two neurotransmitters that are central to memory functions and are often affected in Alzheimer’s disease.

Reduced beta-amyloid buildup

Beta-amyloid is a protein that builds up in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease, forming the characteristic plaques that damage nerve cells. Some animal studies have suggested that caffeine may reduce this buildup, but more research is needed to confirm the same effect in humans.

How much coffee is optimal?

Most studies suggest that 3–5 cups of coffee per day may be an appropriate amount to potentially reduce the risk of dementia. However, drinking more than this may have negative effects, such as increased stress, sleep problems, and heart palpitations.

It is also important to remember that coffee is only part of a larger whole when it comes to dementia prevention. A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular physical activity and mental stimulation is also of great importance.

Sensorem’s personal alarm has GPS positioning, medication reminders and automatic fall alarm

Sensorem’s personal alarm is an example of a technical aid specially developed for people with dementia. The personal alarm works outdoors and has built-in GPS positioning so that relatives can see the user’s position on a map in the Sensorem app. Relatives are automatically called by the personal alarm (two-way communication) if the user leaves a predetermined geographical area. The personal alarm also has medication reminders, which means that the watch emits a sound and tells the user that it is time to take their medication. The personal alarm can also alert automatically in the event of a fall with the built-in fall sensor.