This podcast episode features Dr. Mitch Clionsky, a neuropsychologist who specializes in preventing cognitive decline and dementia, and who has treated over 30,000 patients throughout his career. He discusses his book Dementia Prevention: Using Your Head to Save Your Brain, offering key insights into how dementia is a neurological disorder, not just a psychiatric condition. Dr. Clionsky emphasizes that dementia is not inevitable, even if it runs in your family—up to 50% of cases can be prevented with lifestyle changes. He highlights the importance of identifying risks like sleep apnea, hearing loss, and gum disease, and explains how treating these issues early can help maintain cognitive health. In the “Links and Resources” tab below are four sleep-apnea-related papers Dr. Clionsky refers to in the podcast. He also talks about the benefits of exercise and starting prevention early. Dr. Clionsky encourages listeners to assess their health habits and take proactive steps to reduce their dementia risk, providing practical advice and tools to help them stay mentally sharp as they age.