Understanding Alzheimer’s
What is Alzheimer’s disease and is there a prevention of Alzheimer’s? Alzheimer’s is an irreversible brain disease that causes the deterioration of memory and cognitive function slowly over time. In America, nearly 5.8 Americans currently have Alzheimer’s. It is a disease that mostly impacts the elderly, as 95% of people who develop the disease don’t do so until they are over the age of 65. While it is a progressive disease, there are some different actions you can take to help prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s.
7 Actions to Prevent Alzheimer’s
Exercise
One of the most important ways you can combat Alzheimer’s as well as many other diseases is to regularly exercise. Studies show that walking activates the hippocampus which is a part of the brain that is deeply involved in memory retention. Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day make a significant difference. Regardless of if you have in-home care, or live independently, there are ways you can exercise each day.
Sleep
Getting the proper amount of sleep each night plays a vital role in keeping your overall body healthy, as well as your mind. It is recommended that each person should get 7-8 of sleep per night. Being sleep-deprived, as well as consistently oversleeping have been linked to many different adverse health effects.
Visit Your Doctor
Another way to help prevent Alzheimer’s disease is to be aware of your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Having high cholesterol, blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes have all been linked to Alzheimer’s. These conditions can be recognized by visiting your doctor on a regular basis.
Get Involved
Another way to potentially prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s is to interact with people regularly. As people get older and retire, many times they become more isolated and studies have shown long term isolation isn’t beneficial for the brain. Consider joining a club, volunteering, and meeting up with friends for coffee to have consistent social interactions.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking has many different adverse health effects such as lung cancer, but it may also increase your chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease. One study found that those who are over the age of 65 and smoke have an approximately 80% greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to those who have never smoked.
Watch Your Diet
What you eat greatly impact your body and your mind. Several studies have found that Mediterranean diets help to reduce the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Other studies have also suggested that omega-3 fats help to keep your mind healthy and prevent disease. Consider adding nuts, salmon, or fish oil to your diet to get omega-3 fats.
Learn Something New
Find something that you are passionate about and take a course on it or read a book about it. Learning something new stimulates your brain and this stimulation has long-lasting impacts, which means you may not need at home assistance. Another way you can stimulate the brain is to practice memorization or to solve puzzles or riddles. Find a regular task that causes you to learn.
Conclusion
Whether you are young or old, you most likely know someone who has been impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. While it is an irreversible disease, there are some steps you can take to prevent it. Consider applying some of the actions listed above to prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
