Every September, Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) celebrates World Alzheimer's Awareness Month. The main purpose of this campaign is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with this condition.
Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia that affects millions of American adults over 65 and requires close attention. However, there are some actionable ways to help prevent Alzheimer's and increase the quality of life for yourself and your loved ones.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial in reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Though altering your habits might seem challenging, establishing a routine can make the transition smoother.
As you age, losing weight and keeping it off can become increasingly difficult, but engaging in regular physical activity and consuming a nutritious diet can help. By exercising daily and monitoring your food intake, you can shed excess weight and lower your chances of developing Alzheimer's. Adopting a healthy diet doesn’t always mean eating less; rather, it involves selecting wholesome foods and maintaining a balance of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
Choose a physical activity that you enjoy; otherwise, maintaining consistency can be difficult. Remember, any workout that elevates your heart rate and challenges your muscles is a great start.
Kick the Bad Habits
If you’ve always wanted to quit smoking, now is the best time to act. Research shows that smokers are 40% more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than non-smokers.
When you smoke, your blood circulation suffers, meaning your organs stop receiving enough oxygen and nutrients and may stop functioning properly. This increases the chance of developing a variety of diseases, including dementia.
Even if you've been smoking for decades, it's never too late to quit. The earlier you stop, the faster you can start reducing the risks. The same is true for excessive alcohol consumption.
Manage Your Blood Pressure and Sugar Levels
If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, do your best to keep them under control. Studies show that type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure can be risk factors for developing dementia. Keep in touch with your doctor and don't miss regular physicals.
Maintain Social Connections and Engage in Intellectual Activities
Maintaining social connections with friends and family is a critical factor in preventing Alzheimer’s. While it may seem tough at first, you can find multiple opportunities for socialization, especially if you choose to live in a retirement community.
Meanwhile, anything that keeps your mind active helps reduce the risks of developing dementia. Here are a few tips for keeping your mind sharp:
- Enroll in a learning course
- Participate in group arts and crafts activities
- Volunteer your time
- Solve puzzles and crosswords
- Watch game shows and take quizzes
One of the best ways to prevent Alzheimer's disease is to create a comfortable environment that contributes to healthy and happy living. If you or your loved one needs some extra help, consider Moorings Park Communities assisted living and memory care residences. Contact us to learn more or schedule your private tour.
