Several deteriorating health conditions tend to plague seniors over 65 and rob them of the enjoyment of life in their retirement. The nasty twins that are the enemies of senior health are dementia and depression. This is particularly the case for seniors 65 years of age and older. Both of these conditions have been traced to common vascular risk factors. In a recent study in Europe, over 1,000 elderly persons in that age group were studied over a four year period.
Particular attention was paid to examining them for dementia and depression. After four years about 5% of the elderly had developed dementia. The 95% of the elderly that were free of dementia were tested and found to have higher blood levels of EPA which is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid that is found in fish.
Continuing the study the researchers looked for an association between dementia and depression. In their research they were able to confirm that there is indeed an association between depression and dementia. They identified a common cause of both conditions, because they both share similar vascular risk factors. The good news for seniors looking for ways to preempt aging is that eating fish that are high in EPA content will simultaneously reduce the vascular risk factors for both dementia and depression. Getting sufficient EPA will decrease the risk of depression and dementia and promote senior health.