Results showed that memory and comprehension skills declined in men and women over 45, and there was a faster decline in older people.
The head of research at Alzheimer's Research UK said:
"Previous research suggests that our health in mid-life affects our risk of dementia as we age, and these findings give us all an extra reason to stick to our New Year's resolutions.
Although we don't yet have a sure-fire way to prevent dementia, we do know that simple lifestyle changes - such as eating a healthy diet, not smoking, and keeping blood pressure and cholesterol in check - can all reduce the risk of dementia."
Read more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-16425522