Is Dementia Genetic?

Medically reviewed by Paige Henry, LMSW, J.D.
Updated October 9, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team
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Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a variety of conditions that impact a person’s cognitive function, including things like memory, coordination, learning, and more. Though there are many types of dementia to consider, it’s generally true that genetics have little to nothing to do with a person’s likelihood of developing these diseases. Instead, it’s likely that many factors increase risk of cognitive decline in the vast majority of people affected. 

Still, research into to what extent faulty genes play a role is still ongoing, and it may be possible that some types  may be more likely to be directly inherited. In this article, we’ll discuss the nuance behind the causes and what you can do to seek the professional help you may need to combat its symptoms. 

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Family history and dementia

Whether dementia is hereditary depends heavily on the individual case. Many cases of dementia have little to do with a person’s genetics, but it’s also true that some, such as Alzheimer’s disease, may be more likely to be influenced by genetics than others. 

The genetics aren’t completely understood. Researchers are still trying to understand what causes it and why, but in general, it seems that lifestyle factors and individual health risks may carry more weight than genetic variants. Likewise, things like brain injuries or damage caused by illicit substances can potentially alter the mind in ways that contribute to this illness later.

Alzheimer’s disease and genetics

Alzheimer’s does not have a direct genetic cause. If a person has a family history of the disease, it does not mean they’ve inherited a faulty gene and are likely to get the disease themselves. However, certain genetic variants may increase Alzheimer’s risk. 

Several genes (at least 80 genetic areas, to date) are associated with Alzheimer’s, but one gene in particular may influence Alzheimer’s risk: the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene. Additionally, three genes may lead to early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease (EOFAD) – Amyloid precursor protein (APP) on chromosome 21, Presenilin 1 (PSEN1) on chromosome 14, and Presenilin 2 (PSEN2) on chromosome 1 – are known to cause Alzheimer’s disease. However, these are rare genes. 

Genetic tests are not frequently used to diagnose Alzheimer’s or predict the risk of developing the disease. Individuals who chose to undergo testing typically do so in rare cases when recommended by a neurologist or other medical specialist. Some people may also participate in genetic testing in research settings to help experts better understand Alzheimer’s genetic associations.

Lewy body dementia and genetics

In general, Lewy body dementia is not considered to be a hereditary condition— having parents or grandparents with it doesn’t carry risk genes. It may be true, though, that having a family history of the condition can increase your level of risk. There are some additional risk factors involved that can help to determine whether someone is going to have Lewy body dementia.

Most people who contract Lewy body dementia are over the age of 50. There have been reported cases in younger people, but these are extremely rare. So, it seems that age is a common risk factor; the older you get, the more likely you may be to experience it. 

Similarly, living with conditions like Parkinson's disease or sleep disorders can increase the likelihood of being diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. The exact reason why these sorts of factors might increase a person's chances of getting this illness isn't entirely understood, but it may relate to changes in brain cells that worsen over time, leading to cognitive decline.

Vascular dementia and genetics

There are rare forms of vascular dementia that may be caused by having certain genes. Genetic mutations of the NOTCH3 gene, for instance, are known to cause vascular dementia. This gene pattern can be inherited from your family, so in this way, it is true that vascular dementia can be hereditary. Even so, this is a rare form of the disease and is not typical of most people's experiences.

Common vascular dementia has yet to be linked to specific genetics. Progress has been made in determining certain things about the disease, but not everything is fully understood at this time. It will likely take further research performed by dedicated professionals to identify the genes linked to the risk.

Can it be prevented?

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As it stands now, there aren’t any clearly defined or proven ways to prevent it or lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Experts believe there are some things that people can do to take care of their brains and limit the risk of developing this illness but following them strictly doesn’t mean you certainly won’t experience it. Overall, it seems that healthy habits, regular healthcare, and an overall balanced lifestyle may be the best tools we have to prevent cognitive decline of any sort, especially when implemented at a younger age.

According to the World Health Organization, there are some things that research suggests may help people reduce their risk of dementia, including lifestyle changes such as:

  • Being physically active

  • Avoiding harmful substance use, including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, etc.

  • Maintaining a healthy weight along with healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels (also beneficial for preventing heart disease)

  • Eating a healthy, well-rounded diet

Likewise, there are some risk factors that experts believe may contribute to an increased risk of developing this later in life. Examples include:

  • Mental health disorders like depression, which may impact brain activity and function over time

  • Social isolation

  • Poor or little education, which may impact cognitive function

  • Air pollution

  • Cognitive inactivity, or failing to stimulate the brain

Seeking help for management

Your relationship with dementia and learning to live with it may be quite mentally taxing. If you seek out professional help to discuss your experiences, symptoms, and concerns, you may find that taking steps to manage your symptoms feels easier. This can be especially true for those who develop depression or another mental health disorder as a result of dementia; it’s not uncommon to experience changes in your mental health in conjunction with changes in cognitive ability. 

Whether you live with dementia, know someone who does, or are simply looking for ways to mitigate your own risk of developing it, it may be beneficial to pursue professional advice through online therapy. Speaking to a therapist through the web can make it easier to find someone who has experience addressing your needs. Plus, you don’t have to leave the comfort of your own home to attend sessions, which can help you save time and money.

Even if you don’t have symptoms of a mental health disorder, it’s likely you can benefit from online therapy’s ability to improve mental wellness without breaking the bank. In fact, one recent review of 17 studies analyzing the benefits of online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for depression found it could be just as, if not more effective as in-person therapy. It also noted that online CBT was overall more cost-effective for clients than traditional treatment.

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Takeaway

Dementia is likely not a hereditary condition, though genetics and family history of dementia may increase your risk of developing it yourself. Still, it seems like other factors, many of which can be within your control, play a bigger role in shaping someone’s cognitive health as they age. The best way to prevent dementia, then, may be to take good care of your mental and physical health, stimulate your mind as best you can, and learn when it’s time to seek professional help for your concerns.

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