Healthy Aging During World Alzheimer’s Month

September 2017 is the fifth global World Alzheimer’s month, and this international campaign is helping many realize just how important healthy aging is. Dementia is a global problem, and understanding how to prevent or delay the onset and deal with the consequences is an absolute must.

Healthier Aging

One way to fight dementia is to promote healthy aging, and there are several lifestyle changes that can help slow or even prevent the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s.  Here are a few to consider.

• Exercise: The ideal way to maintain good health, regular physical activity helps to decrease the risk of many physical injuries and illnesses, but also helps to increase brain area where verbal memory and learning are concerned.
• Sleep: While a solid rest may seem only to hold short term benefits, research shows consistent good sleep can help to avoid a buildup of beta-amyloid protein, which is associated with the development of Alzheimer’s.
• Diet: Saturated fats and trans fats have been known to increase the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia, while including leafy greens, fruits and vegetables, and legumes in your diet has been shown to delay the onset of these conditions. Creating a healthier diet that avoids problem foods is one great way to help your brain.
• Mental Challenges: Engaging in enjoyable, enriching activities can help increase blood flow to the brain and maintain cognitive vitality. From reading to taking classes to taking up a new hobby, there are many ways to challenge your brain and avoid difficulties down the road.

Becoming Part of the Cure

The goal to learn more about and end Alzheimer’s disease depends on volunteers and the funding necessary to continue the research. Supporting organizations like Alzheimer’s Disease International can help address the urgent needs on a global level.

Hospice care for those dealing with Alzheimer’s is the perfect way to meet the unique ways of families hoping to relieve pain, control symptoms, and improve the quality of life for patients. To learn more about how we can help, contact us today.