Diagnosed with a degenerative brain disorder such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia can be debilitating for the person affected and their families.
September is World Alzheimer’s Month 2023, and the theme is ‘Never too early, never too late‘. The campaign aims to adopt proactive risk reduction measures to delay and potentially prevent the onset of dementia for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia can start years before symptoms show up. The number of people living with dementia may triple by 2050, so it is essential to understand and respond to the risk factors.
Aging is one of the risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia; however, dementia is not a normal part of aging. Women appear to develop Alzheimer’s disease more than men.
We can’t stop the aging process, but we can change lifestyles to reduce the risks of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Staying active, eating well and being socially active all help promote good brain health to reduce the risks. Good heart health can be achieved by avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Below is a list of risk factors with suggestions on how to counteract them and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
Physical activity
Regular physical activity is good for your heart, circulation, weight and mental well-being. Various aerobic exercise options include walking and home activities, such as raking leaves or doing other yard work. If one has impaired movement, there are sitting exercises, such as exercise bicycles, rowing machines or other gym machines.
Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of developing dementia, type 2 diabetes, and stroke.
Alcohol
There is a relationship between the overuse of alcohol that affects a range of mental and behavioural disorders.
Social Interaction
Being socially connected reduces the risk of dementia by enhancing cognitive reserve and encouraging beneficial behaviours. Joining a seniors social club or community group is a great way to stay socially active as we age.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure or hypertension in mid-life can increase a person’s risk of dementia and other health problems.
Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a risk for the development of future dementia. Treatment of diabetes is also essential for other health reasons.
Depression
Depression is associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia and occurs before other symptoms. It is vital to manage and treat depression as it is associated with increased disability, physical illnesses and worse outcomes for people with dementia.
A progressive neurological disorder like Alzheimer’s or dementia needs urgent care to try to preserve cognitive abilities and memories.
You can meet your care needs in the comfort of your home with Promyse Home Care’s Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Services.
Dedicated and essential care can help your family’s peace of mind, knowing that your loved one is in good hands with a trained and experienced professional team. Cognitive companions and caregivers will offer your loved one mental, physical, and emotional support. All caregivers are matched with a client with Alzheimer’s or Dementia and have experience working with patients struggling with cognitive impairment.
The Nurse Case Managers at Promyse Home Care monitor and review care plans and practices. They will help you understand, communicate & connect with your health team to always serve you best.
