Memory changes are normal as we grow older, but the
symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia are more than simple lapses. People with
Alzheimer’s experience problems communicating, learning, thinking, and
reasoning that eventually become severe enough to impact an individual's work,
social activities, and family life. However, new research has shown
there are ways to reduce the risk of memory
problems; below is a list of 8 Ways to Reduce Alzheimer's Risk.
1. Stay Active. The
Case Western Reserve School of Medicine 25-Year Study tracking the development
of dementia in a convent of nuns found they had a 150% greater risk of dementia
if they did not pursue physical activities. Include aerobic activity and
strength training in your daily routine, or simply walk, garden, shop the mall
– anything that keeps you moving.
2. Exercise Your Mind. The
same Case Western Study found that they had a 250% greater risk of dementia if
they did not pursue intellectual activities. An active brain produces new
dendrites or connections which help the brain store and retrieve information
more easily, no matter your age. Learn a foreign language, volunteer, read or
play scrabble.
3. Dance the Night Away. A
recent study showed that dancing specifically decreases incidence of dementia,
probably because the interaction between multiple parts of the brain; balance,
rhythm, hearing, and vision, has a strengthening impact on cognitive function.
4. Learn Relaxation Techniques. Stress
and anxiety interfere with concentration. Try massage, yoga, or breathing
methods to help you regain your calm.
5. Have a Good Laugh Every Day. The
old expression “laughter is the best medicine” has been confirmed by medical
researchers. Laughter actually opens the blood vessels and increases blood flow
to the heart and to the brain, so watch a funny movie, tell a joke, or simply
share a laugh with a friend.
6. Control Blood Sugar Levels. A
growing body of evidence links diabetes with Alzheimer’s. Poor blood sugar
control dramatically increases the risk of dementia. Diabetes-related toxins
may worsen memory function, and diabetes medications may reduce insulin-related
brain cell processes. Your best bet is to eat a healthy, low-sugar diet to
forestall the one-two punch of diabetes and dementia.
7. Watch What You Eat. All
of the nutritional advice for a healthy heart also makes for a healthy brain, so
limit your fats and carbohydrates, maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure,
and limit your salt intake; the theory is that reducing inflammation reduces
the “strain on the brain”.
8. Maintain Social Connections. Multiple
studies have shown that maintaining social ties decreases the risk of dementia and
slows the progression. Getting together with friends and family, and joining
social groups, strengthens emotional and cognitive function.
If you or a loved one wants to learn more about these 8
Ways to Reduce Alzheimer's Risk, contact Juniper Village at Aurora Wellspring Memory Care. We offer many innovative brain health
screening and support programs.
No comments:
Post a Comment