The number of Alzheimer’s patients in Indonesia continues to rise alongside the growing elderly population. Data from the Ministry of Health shows that more than 4.2 million Indonesians are living with Alzheimer’s, making it one of the most significant health challenges for an ageing society. The condition develops due to declining brain function, which affects memory, behaviour, and cognitive abilities.
In an interview, UGM geriatrician Dr. Probosuseno explained that Alzheimer’s is a degenerative disease that occurs when the brain tissue responsible for transmitting nerve signals becomes damaged, resulting in slower thinking.
He outlined 15 risk factors that increase vulnerability to Alzheimer’s, including diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, obesity, pollution, smoking, depression, low education level, hearing and vision impairment, lack of exercise, limited social interaction, head injury, insufficient sunlight exposure, and infrequent outdoor activities.
“These factors do not guarantee that someone will develop Alzheimer’s, but they increase the likelihood of dementia,” Dr. Probosuseno said on Tuesday (Nov. 25).
He emphasized that physical activity is the simplest and most proven way to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s.
The activity itself does not need to be strenuous; walking for 30 minutes a day can already make a significant difference.
Step goals can be adjusted by age: 3,000-5,000 steps for older people and 5,000-7,000 steps for younger individuals.
“It doesn’t have to be a full 30 minutes at once. You can divide it into 10 minutes in the morning and 7 minutes in the afternoon. As long as it adds up to 30 minutes a day, that’s enough,” he explained.
Dr. Probosuseno also recommended engaging in physical activity between 07.00 and 10.00 a.m., as morning sunlight helps regulate mood-related hormones and improve sleep quality.
For elderly individuals with mobility limitations, lighter options such as brain exercises, simple muscle training, and basic body movements are suitable alternatives.
“What matters most is keeping the body active, because inactivity actually accelerates the development of dementia,” he advised.
Furthermore, he introduced the “MAS OK” method as a formula for preventing Alzheimer’s from a young age.
M (Mother of Learning) highlights habits such as reading, listening, writing, and explaining information to stimulate the brain.
A (Agama/Religion) emphasizes prayer, spiritual activities, and prostration as ways to stabilize the mind.
S (Seni dan Sosial/Arts and Social Activities) encourages involvement in artistic and social engagements to maintain mental well-being.
In addition, Dr. Probosuseno summarized healthy lifestyle principles using the “OK” formula: taking medication regularly for chronic conditions, undergoing routine health check-ups, carrying an elderly identification card, maintaining social interactions, and exercising consistently.
“In conclusion, the management of Alzheimer’s dementia depends on its causes, because the prevention of cognitive decline varies from one individual to another,” Dr. Probosuseno concluded.
Author: Hanifah
Editor: Triya Andriyani
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Illustration: Freepik