Wellspring Memory Care

8 Ways to Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk: Juniper Offers Screening and Support

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 Communities Wellspring Memory Care.  We offer many innovative brain health screening and support programs.

admin

Share
Published by
admin
Tags: Editorial

Recent Posts

How To Do a Multigenerational Family Vacation

Some tips on how to plan and execute a successful multigenerational family vacation include: Choose… Read More

4 days ago

The Best Vitamins for Seniors: Essential Nutrients for Healthy Aging

To maintain good health, it's important for older adults to incorporate a variety of vitamins… Read More

4 days ago

Your Guide to Assisted Living Communities for LGBTQ+ Older Adults

While these valuable services are beneficial to all residents, LGBTQ+ older adults may have additional… Read More

4 days ago

The Best Anxiety Medications for Older Adults: A Comprehensive Guide

But with so many different anxiety medications available, it can be overwhelming to know which… Read More

4 days ago

Apps & Brain Games for Alzheimer’s Prevention

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is… Read More

4 days ago

How to Help Older Adults with Alzheimer’s Stay Hydrated

Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. As the… Read More

4 days ago