4 Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer's

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are 5.4 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s; over 99% are 65 years or older. That means over 10 percent of senior citizens have Alzheimer’s disease. Currently Alzheimer’s is the 6^th leading cause of death in America, behind heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease, accidents and stroke. It is also the only cause of death in the top 10 that cannot be prevented or cured.

There are many people around the world working hard to determine what causes Alzheimer’s so it can be prevented in the future. As recently as August 2016 scientists from the University of Cambridge discovered a gene signature in healthy brains that pinpoints the origins of Alzheimer’s disease. We will have to wait and see if this breakthrough will lead to preventative treatments for individuals who are considered high-risk for contracting this disease.

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or magic pill to prevent it, there are things you can do to put yourself at a lower risk of getting it as you get older. Reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease and staying social may help lower your risk.

Since September is World Alzheimer’s Month, we want to share 4 tips you can do today that may reduce your risk of getting Alzheimer’s:

• Eat Healthy: A lifestyle of less sodium, sugar, and processed foods, and more fruits, vegetables and lean meats may also help protect the brain. This healthy nutrition lifestyle also helps to lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

• Be Physically Active: Regular physical activity can increase blood and oxygen flow to the brain benefiting the brain’s cells. Although you should talk to your doctor before starting any type of exercise regimen, a brisk walk is a great start. Exercise will also help to lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

• Be Socially Active: Social interactions may help stimulate and strengthen the connections between nerve cells in the brain. As we age, it is important that we do not isolate ourselves from others. Having ongoing social contact is important for our mental and emotional well-being.

• Be Mentally Active: You may still be working, so your brain is ‘in gear’ throughout the day. But once you retire you need to find something to keep you mentally active. Whether you like to play games, do Sudoku or crossword puzzles, or learn something new, find the activity that will keep your mentally stimulated.

 At Assisting Hands® Home Care, our skilled caregivers provide companionship for their seniors and make sure they are eating right and getting the appropriate physical activity. Whether you need someone to be with your loved one during the day, in the evening or overnight, our at-home care can accommodate your needs. You will have peace of mind knowing that they aren’t home alone when they need help with medication, fall prevention, personal care, eating or other needs.

Contact us today to schedule your free in-home fall prevention assessment at 630-305-9100. To learn more about our in home senior care, click here.