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๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ Taiwan /Health & Science

Ma Ying-jeou Denies Dementia Rumors, Offers Prevention Tips

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Former Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou has publicly refuted rumors of dementia through a video statement, asserting his continued cognitive sharpness at age 76.
  • His denial comes amid discussions about his health, following his former foundation CEO's remarks about forgetting many things.
  • The article also provides advice on preventing dementia, emphasizing brain stimulation, exercise, social interaction, a Mediterranean diet, and maintaining a healthy weight, while warning against head injuries, smoking, and depression.

Recent speculation surrounding the health of former President Ma Ying-jeou, fueled by remarks from his former foundation chief, has been decisively put to rest by Ma himself. In a clear and direct video statement, Ma Ying-jeou, now 76, has vehemently denied any suggestion of cognitive decline, dismissing such rumors as 'laughable.' He emphasized his consistent routine of reading and exercising daily, a testament to his continued vigor and mental acuity.

I heard it and found it laughable.

โ€” Ma Ying-jeouResponding to rumors about his cognitive health.

This public rebuttal is particularly significant given the recent high-profile cases of dementia affecting prominent figures, both domestically and internationally. The article cites examples such as former Health Minister Lin Fang-yu, former Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan, and Hollywood actor Bruce Willis, underscoring the widespread concern about this condition. Ma's proactive stance serves not only to clarify his personal health status but also to address the broader societal anxieties surrounding cognitive health, especially among public figures.

I am already 76 years old, and I still actively read and exercise every day, just as I have for decades.

โ€” Ma Ying-jeouAsserting his continued physical and mental activity.

Beyond addressing the rumors, the article pivots to offer valuable public health guidance on dementia prevention, framed through the 'seek fortune and avoid disaster' (่ถจๅ‰้ฟๅ‡ถ) principle. This approach, promoted by the Taichung City Health Bureau, encourages proactive measures to bolster brain health. The advice covers a comprehensive range of lifestyle factors, from engaging in mentally stimulating activities and regular physical exercise to maintaining robust social connections and adhering to a Mediterranean diet. It also highlights the importance of managing chronic conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes, and advises on avoiding head injuries and quitting smoking. From a Taiwanese perspective, where aging demographics are a significant concern, such practical health advice is highly relevant and appreciated, offering actionable steps for citizens to maintain their cognitive well-being throughout their lives.

To make proper arrangements for Ma Ying-jeou's future medical needs and care.

โ€” Chow Mei-chingStatement regarding arrangements for Ma's care, which fueled health speculation.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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